Source Water Protection Plan
BERKELEY COUNTY PSWD
POTOMAC RIVER PLANT
PWSID WV3300218
BERKELEY COUNTY
May 24, 2016
Prepared by:
The Berkeley County Public Service Water District and Advanced Land and Water, Inc.
Prepared By:
Advanced Land and Water, Inc
Title of Preparer:
Operations Manager / Senior Scientist
Name of Contractor(s)/Consultant(s) (if used):
Raudenbush Engineering, Inc.
I certify the information in the source water protection plan is complete and accurate to the
best of my knowledge.
Signature of responsible party or designee authorized to sign for water utility:
Print Name of Authorizing Signatory (see instructions):
Title of Authorizing Signatory:
Date of Submission (mm/dd/yyyy):
05/24/2016
Table of Contents
Acronyms ................................................................................................................................................ 5
Purpose .................................................................................................................................................... 6
What are the benefits of preparing a Source Water Protection Plan (SWPP)? .................................. 7
Background: WV Source Water Assessment and Protection (SWAP) Program ............................. 7
State Regulatory Requirements ............................................................................................................ 8
System Information ................................................................................................................................ 9
Water Treatment and Storage .............................................................................................................. 10
Delineations............................................................................................................................................. 12
Protection Team ..................................................................................................................................... 14
Potential Significant Sources of Contamination .................................................................................. 16
Confidentiality of PSSCs .................................................................................................................... 16
Local and Regional PSSCs .................................................................................................................. 17
Prioritization of Threats and Management Strategies ......................................................................... 19
Implementation Plan for Management Strategies .............................................................................. 20
Education and Outreach Strategies ...................................................................................................... 25
Contingency Plan ................................................................................................................................... 28
Response Networks and Communication............................................................................................ 29
Operation During Loss of Power......................................................................................................... 31
Future Water Supply Needs ................................................................................................................ 33
Water Loss Calculation ....................................................................................................................... 33
Early Warning Monitoring System ..................................................................................................... 35
Single Source Feasibility Study ............................................................................................................. 37
Communication Plan ............................................................................................................................. 38
Emergency Response Short Form ....................................................................................................... 39
Conclusion............................................................................................................................................... 39
3 List of Tables
Table 1. Population Served by the BCPSWD Potomac River WTP ............................................ 9
Table 2. The BCPSWD Potomac River WTP Water Treatment Information ........................... 10
Table 3. The BCPSWD Potomac River WTP Surface Water Sources ........................................ 11
Table 4. The BCPSWD Potomac River WTP Groundwater Sources.......................................... 11
Table 5. Source Water Protection Area Delineation Information ............................................... 13
Table 6. Protection Team Member and Contact Information ..................................................... 15
Table 7. New Locally Identified Potential Significant Sources of Contamination ..................... 18
Table 8. Priority PSSCs or Critical Areas ...................................................................................... 21
Table 9. Priority PSSC Management Strategies ............................................................................ 22
Table 10. Education and Outreach Implementation Plan ............................................................ 26
Table 11. The BCPSWD Potomac River WTP Water Shortage Response Capability .............. 30
Table 12. Generator Capacity ......................................................................................................... 32
Table 13. Future Water Supply Needs for the BCPSWD Potomac River WTP......................... 33
Table 14. Water Loss Information .................................................................................................. 34
Table 15. Early Warning Monitoring System Capabilities .......................................................... 36
Appendices
Appendix A. Figures ................................................................................................................... 40
Appendix B. Early Warning Monitoring System Forms ........................................................ 56
Appendix C. Communication Plan ........................................................................................... 61
Appendix D. Single Source Feasibility Study ........................................................................... 80
Appendix E. Single Source Feasibility Study Narrative ......................................................... 81
Appendix F. Supporting Documentation.................................................................................. 82
 F-1. ALWI PSSC Update and Source Inspection
 F-2. Locally Identified PSSC Database Search
 F-3. BCPSWD – Potomac River Plant SWARs
 F-4. BCPSWD Protection Team Meeting Minutes
 F-5. Emergency Response Plan Signature Page
 F-6. Engineering Evaluation
 F-7. Railroad Emergency Response Trainings and Services
4 Acronyms
GWUDI – Groundwater Under Direct Influence of Surface Water
PSSC – Potential Significant Source of Contamination
PWS – Public Water System
SWAP Program – Source Water Assessment and Protection Program
SWAR – Source Water Assessment Report
SWPA – Source Water Protection Area
SWPP – Source Water Protection Plan
WHPA – Wellhead Protection Area
WSDA – Watershed Delineation Area
WTP – Water Treatment Plant
WVBPH – West Virginia Bureau for Public Health
WVDEP – West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection
ZCC – Zone of Critical Concern
ZPC – Zone of Peripheral Concern
5 Purpose
The goal of the West Virginia Bureau for Public Health (WVBPH) Source Water Assessment and
Protection (SWAP) program is to prevent degradation of source waters which may preclude present
and future uses of drinking water supplies, to provide safe water in sufficient quantity to users. The
most efficient way to accomplish this goal is to encourage and oversee source water protection at a
local level. Many aspects of source water protection are best addressed by engaging local stakeholders
and local government officials.
The intent of this document is to describe what the Berkeley County Public Service Water District
(BCPSWD) has done, is currently doing, and plans to do to protect its sources of drinking water
serving the Potomac River Water Treatment Plant (WTP). BCPSWD owns and operates the Potomac
River WTP. Although this water system treats water to meet federal and state drinking water standards,
conventional treatment does not fully eradicate all potential contaminants. Treatment that goes beyond
conventional methods is often very expensive to implement, maintain and operate. By completing this
plan, BCPSWD acknowledges that implementing measures to prevent contamination of system water
sources can be a relatively economical way to help protect drinking water in ways that it can continue
to be provided to customers, reliably and safely.
6 What are the benefits of preparing a Source Water Protection Plan (SWPP)?
 Fulfills the West Virginia state requirement for the public water utilities to complete or update





their source water protection plan.
Provides a means for identification and prioritization of potential threats to sources of drinking
water; and the establishment of strategies to minimize the threats.
Establishes plans for emergency response to incidents that may come to compromise the water
supply source(s) by contamination or depletion, and includes the manner in which the public,
state, and local agencies will be notified of such an occurrence.
Evaluates and establishes plans for future expansion and development of water resources,
including the need to identify secondary sources of water.
Ensures optimal treatment conditions exist to provide the safest and highest quality drinking
water to customers at the lowest possible cost.
Provides opportunities for funding to improve water system infrastructure, purchase land in the
protection area, and for other improvements to either the sources, or their associated Source
Water Protection Areas (SWPAs).
Background: WV Source Water Assessment and Protection Program
Since 1974, the federal Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) has set minimum standards on the
construction and operation of public water systems, including the BCPSWD Potomac River WTP (the
utility), as well as the quality of finished water provided to the public. In 1986, Congress amended the
SDWA. A portion of those amendments were designed to protect the source water contribution areas
around groundwater supply wells. This program eventually became known as the Wellhead Protection
Program (WHPP). The purpose of the WHPP is to prevent pollution of source water supplying
groundwater sources relied upon by public water systems.
The Safe Drinking Water Act Amendments of 1996 expanded the concept of wellhead protection to
include surface water sources under the umbrella term of Source Water Protection. The amendments
encourage states to establish SWAP programs to protect all public drinking water supplies (both
surface water and groundwater sources). As part of this initiative, states must explain how protection
areas for each public water system are delineated, how potential contaminant sources are inventoried,
and how susceptibility ratings are established.
7 In 1999, the WVBPH published the West Virginia SWAP Program, which was endorsed by the United
States Environmental Protection Agency. Over the next few years, WVBPH staff completed an
assessment (i.e., delineation, inventory and susceptibility analysis) for all of West Virginia’s public
water systems. Each public water system was sent a copy of its assessment report. Information
regarding assessment reports for the BCPSWD Potomac River WTP can be found in Table 1.
State Regulatory Requirements
On June 6, 2014, §16 1 2 and §16 1 9a of the Code of West Virginia, 1931,was reenacted and amended
by adding three new sections, designated §16 1 9c, §16 1 9d and §16-1-9e. The changes to the code
outline specific requirements for public water utilities that draw water from surface water sources or
Ground Water Under the Direct Influence of Surface Water (GWUDI) sources.
Under the amended and newly added codes, each existing public water utility operating surface water
and/or GWUDI sources must have completed or updated a Source Water Protection Plan (SWPP) by
July 1, 2016, and must continue to update their plan every three years. Existing SWPPs have been
developed for many public water utilities in the past. If available, these SWPPs were reviewed and
considered in the development of this updated plan. Any new water system established after July 1,
2016 must submit a SWPP before operations commence. A new plan is also required when there is a
significant change in the Potential Sources of Significant Contamination (PSSC) within the Source
Water Protection Area (SWPA), which includes the Zone of Critical Concern (ZCC) for surface
sources. The concepts of PSSCs and SWPAs are expanded upon in later sections of this SWPP.
The code also requires that public water utilities include details regarding PSSCs, protection measures,
system capacities, contingency plans, and communication plans in their SWPP. Before a SWPP can be
approved, the local health department and public will be invited to contribute information and provide
comments for consideration.
In some instances, public water utilities may be asked to conduct
independent studies of the SWPA and specific threats within their SWPA to gain further insight about
the origin of their water for the purpose of developing strategies to better protect these vital resources.
8 System Information
The BCPSWD Potomac River WTP is classified as a state regulated public utility and operates a
community public water system. A community public water system is a system that regularly supplies
drinking water from its own sources to at least 15 service connections used by year round residents, or
regularly serves 25 or more people throughout the entire year. For purposes of this source water
protection plan, community public water systems are also referred to as public water utilities.
Information on the population served by this utility is presented in Table 1 below.
Table 1. Population Served by the BCPSWD Potomac River WTP
Administrative office location:
251 Caperton Boulevard
Martinsburg, WV 25403
Is the system a public utility, according to the
Public Service Commission rule?
Yes
Date of Most Recent Source Water
Assessment Report (SWAR):
August 2004 (Potomac River Intake) & 2014
(Groundwater Wells A,B,D)
Date of Most Recent Source Water Protection
Plan (SWPP):
Unknown date for Groundwater Wells A, B and
D. A SWPP does not yet exist for the Potomac
River Intake.
Population served directly:
22,396
System Name
Bulk Water
Purchaser
Systems:
PWSID Number
Population
None
Total Population Served by the Utility:
Does the utility have multiple source water
protection areas (SWPAs)?
How many SWPAs does the utility have?
22,396
Yes
2; a WHPA for the three system groundwater
wells and a ZCC for the Potomac River Intake.
9 Water Treatment and Storage
As required, the BCPSWD Potomac River WTP has assessed their system (e.g., treatment capacity,
storage capacity, unaccounted for water, contingency plans) to evaluate their ability to provide
drinking water and protect public health. Table 2 contains information on the water treatment methods
and capacity of the utility. Information about the surface water source from which the BCPSWD
Potomac River WTP draws water can be found in Table 3. The Potomac River WTP also receives
water from three groundwater wells, the information for which can be found in Table 4.
Table 2. The BCPSWD Potomac River WTP Water Treatment Information
Water Treatment Processes
(List All Processes in Order)
Coagulation
Flocculation
Sedimentation
Membrane Filtration
Disinfection
Fluoridation
Current Treatment Capacity (gal/day)
6,000,000
Current Average Production (gal/day)
2,400,000
Maximum Quantity Treated and Produced (gal)
4,000,000
Minimum Quantity Treated and Produced (gal)
800,000
Average Hours of Operation
13.7
Maximum Hours of Operation in One Day
16
Minimum Hours of Operation in One Day
8
Number of Storage Tanks Maintained
7 Gravity Storage Tanks, not including Plant
Clearwell #2
Total Gallons of Treated Water Storage (gal)
5,250,000, not including Plant Clearwell #2
(1.5 MG)
Total Gallons of Raw Water Storage (gal)
None
10 Table 3. The BCPSWD Potomac River WTP Surface Water Sources
Source
Name
SDWIS #
Local
Name
Describe Intake
Name of
Water
Source
TP1
Potomac
River
200 feet off-shore, w/ two 30’’ lines to
wet well. Intake has two 3 foot diameter x
10.7 foot L Hendrick screens (0.125’’slot)
Potomac
River
Potomac
River Intake
Frequency of
Date
Use (Primary/
Constructed/
Backup/
Modified
Emergency)
2008
Primary
Activity
Status
Active
Table 4. The BCPSWD Potomac River WTP Groundwater Sources
Does the utility blend with groundwater?
Yes; while the utility primarily uses surface water, groundwater is withdrawn from three system
wells and treated at the same treatment plant, to the same standards as the surface water source.
Completion
Report
Available
(Yes/No)
Well
Depth
(ft.)
Casing
Depth
(ft.)
Grout
(Yes/No)
Frequency
of Use
(Primary/
Backup/
Emergency)
Activity
Status
(Active/
Inactive)
Well/Spring Name
SDWIS #
Local
Name
Date
Constructed
/Modified
Well A
TP1
Well A
2009
No
412
404
Yes
Primary
Active
Well B
TP1
Well B
2009
No
535
195
Yes
Primary
Active
Well D
TP1
Well D
2009
No
400
107
Yes
Primary
Active
11 Delineations
For surface water systems, defining a Watershed Delineation Area (WSDA) entails identifying and
mapping the drainage basin that potentially supplies water to a point of interest. For surface water
sources, this corresponds to a surface water intake. Oftentimes, watershed delineations are based on
topographic maps, and are created by tracing and mapping the topographic high points that act as
surface water and, presumably, groundwater divides relative to other drainage basins. Surface water
sources are susceptible to contamination because they are exposed to the atmosphere and other sources
of pollution located at the land surface. Unlike most groundwater sources, they also lack a natural,
subsurface protective barrier from contamination, such as soil media that might filter or retain some
pollutants. Accidental spills, releases, sudden precipitation events that result in overland runoff, or
storm sewer discharges can allow pollutants at the land surface to readily enter surface water bodies
and potentially contaminate the source of drinking water at the intake. For regulatory purposes, the
SWPA for surface water sources is distinguished as the Zone of Critical Concern (ZCC).
The WSDA includes the entire watershed area upgradient of the intake, to either the political boundary
that is the West Virginia state line, or a topographic divide. The ZCC for a public surface water supply
is a corridor along streams within the watershed that warrants more detailed scrutiny due to its
proximity to the surface water intake and the intake’s susceptibility to potential contaminants within
that corridor. The ZCC is determined using a mathematical model that accounts for stream flows,
gradient and topography. The length of the ZCC is based on a five-hour time-of-travel of water in the
streams (and associated tributaries) to the surface water intake, plus an additional one-quarter mile
below the water intake. The width of the ZCC is 1,000 feet measured horizontally from each bank of
the principal stream and 500 feet measured horizontally from each bank of the tributaries draining into
the principal stream.
The ZPC for a public surface water supply source is a corridor along streams within a watershed that
warrants scrutiny due to its proximity to the surface water intake and the intake’s susceptibility to
potential contaminants within that corridor. The ZPC is determined using a mathematical model that
accounts for stream flows, gradient and topography. The length of the ZPC is based on an additional
five-hour time-of-travel of water in the streams beyond the perimeter of the ZCC, which creates a
12 protection zone of ten hours above the water intake. The width of the ZPC is 1,000 feet measured
horizontally from each bank of the principal stream and 500 feet measured horizontally from each bank
of the tributaries draining into the principal stream.
For groundwater supplies, BPH makes use of two types of SWPA delineations: 1) wellhead
delineations and 2) conjunctive delineations. Conjunctive delineations are developed for supplies
identified as GWUDI sources. A Wellhead Protection Area (WHPA) is determined to be the area
contributing to the recharge of the groundwater source (well or spring), within a five-year time of
travel. A conjunctive delineation combines a WHPA for the hydrogeologic recharge area (five-year
time of travel) and an additionally connected area surrounding a surface water body that contributes
water to a groundwater source. Conjunctive delineations, therefore, have been created for GWUDI
sources.
Information and maps of the WHPA (which will be referred to as the SWPA in this document), for this
public water supply were provided to the utility and are attached to this report. See figures provided in
Appendix A for maps of the SWPA and ZCC. Other information pertaining to these areas is shown in
Table 5.
Table 5. Watershed Delineation Information
Size of WSDA (Acres)
Approximately 3,500,000
River Watershed Name (8-digit HUC)
Conococheague-Opequon (HUC 02070004)
Size of Zone of Critical Concern (Acres)
9,389
Size of Zone of Peripheral Concern (Acres)
(Include ZCC area)
27,095
Method of Delineation for Groundwater
Sources
A delineation was defined by WVDHHR for the
(Groundwater Source) SWPP. The delineation
used hydrogeologic mapping based on local
geologic structure, probable direction of
groundwater flow, limited dye tracing studies, etc.
Area of Wellhead Protection Area (Acres)
4,940
13 Protection Team
Communities with successful SWPPs form a Protection Team to help develop and implement
management and protection strategies. A Protection Team provides a broader level of oversight of the
source water protection effort and includes individuals familiar with protective strategies. Active team
members for the Potomac River WTP include: water supply staff (including the executive director and
chief operator), the Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (OHSEM)
representatives and other local government officials, including the director of the planning department.
A complete list of Protection Team members can be found in Table 6. Some government and business
agencies were unable to participate in this iteration of the source water protection effort. Their
participation should be sought in future iterations of the SWPP, which is updated at least every three
years or as significant changes occur within the SWPA (i.e., changes to PSSCs or sources of water).
With BCPSWD oversight and approval, Advanced Land and Water, Inc. (ALWI) assembled the
Protection Team. Members were provided the opportunity to contribute to the development of the
SWPP. The Protection Team reviewed the system’s existing Source Water Assessment Reports
(SWARs), included as Appendix F-3 of this report, as well as newly-collected PSSC data to make
informed decisions on potential threats, protective measures, and implementation actions. The
Protection Team will continue to be responsible for updating the SWPP in the future and documenting
their efforts to engage local stakeholders.
14 Table 6. Protection Team Member and Contact Information
Name
Representing
Title
Chris Thiel
Berkeley County PSWD
Executive Director
Steve DeRidder
Berkeley County PSWD
Chief Operator
Mike Thompson
Berkeley County Council
Planning Department
Director
Eddie Gochenour
Berkeley County Council
OHSEM Director
Alana Hartman
WV DEP Division of Water and Waste
Management (Nonpoint Section)
Environmental
Resources Analyst
Jennifer O’Brien
Eastern Panhandle Regional Planning
& Development Council
Assistant Director
Bill Clark
Eastern Panhandle Regional Planning
& Development Council
Director
*Regina (Suzy)
Lucas
West Virginia Conservation Agency
Conservation
Specialist
*Joseph A. Castaldo
Department of Transportation
Berkeley County
Supervisor
Phone Number
Email
Date of first protection Team Meeting
November 19, 2015
Efforts to inform and engage local stakeholders and
explain absence of recommended stakeholders:
A list of local stakeholders invited to join the Protection Team is provided
in Appendix F-4. Reasons for their absence are explained therein.
*These representatives could not attend the first Protection Team meeting, but have expressed interest in assisting with the source water protection effort.
15 Potential Significant Sources of Contamination
This SWPP provides a comprehensive list of the Potential Sources of Significant Contamination
(PSSCs) contained within the SWPAs, based upon information obtained from the Department of
Environmental Protection (WVDEP), the WVBPH and the Division of Homeland Security and
Emergency Management. A facility or activity is listed as a PSSC if it has the potential to release a
contaminant that could potentially impact a nearby public water supply. This does not necessarily
indicate that any release has occurred, presently or historically.
The database information that utilities received of PSSCs located in their SWPAs is organized into two
types: 1) SWAP PSSCs, and 2) Regulated Data. SWAP PSSCs are those that have been collected and
verified by the WVBPH SWAP Program during previous field investigations to form the SWARs and
SWPPs. Typical means of identifying and/or confirming the existence of previously identified PSSCs
involves performing a desktop Geographic Information System (GIS) analysis, in which a group
performs a digital, desktop “reconnaissance” of potential hazards that can be identified and/or verified
using a combination of recent orthophotography and state-provided PSSC database information.
Regulated PSSCs are derived by state agencies from federal and state regulated databases, and may
include data from WVDEP, US Environmental Protection Agency, Division of Homeland Security and
Emergency Management, and out-of-state data sources.
Confidentiality of PSSCs
A list of the PSSCs contained within the SWPAs is included in this SWPP. However, the exact
location, characteristics and approximate quantities of contaminants only were made known to a select
designee of the public water utility. This representative has maintained, and will continue to maintain
this information in a confidential manner. In the event of a chemical spill, release or related
emergency, information pertaining to such an event will immediately be disseminated to appropriate
emergency responders. The designee is identified in the communication plan section of this SWPP.
PSSC data from some agencies (e.g., Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management,
WVDEP, etc.) may be restricted due to the confidential nature of the data. However, geospatial data
has been provided to the public water utility’s selected designee. On behalf of the system, ALWI
16 contacted the Berkeley County OHSEM office in regards to identifying facilities within the SWPA which are
subject to TIER II reporting. The results of this inquiry remained outstanding as of this reporting; BCPSWD will
follow up with communications to the Berkeley County OHSEM and the local emergency planning commission
(LEPC) in this regard. To obtain specific details regarding contaminants (such as information included
on Tier II reports), the water utility will continue to contact local emergency agencies, directly. Maps
and lists of the Non-Confidential SWAP and Regulated PSSCs are provided in Appendix A Figures.
Local and Regional PSSCs
For the purposes of this SWPP, local PSSCs are those that are identified by the Potomac River WTP
Protection Team, consultants to BCPSWD, or local stakeholders, in addition to the PSSCs lists
distributed by the WVBPH and other agencies. Local PSSCs may be identified for two main reasons.
The first is that it is possible that threats exist from unregulated sources and land uses that have not
already been inventoried and do not appear in regulated databases. For this reason each public water
utility should conduct periodic investigations of their protection area for local PSSCs. In completing a
PSSC inventory, public water utilities strive to identify all contaminant sources and land uses in the
delineated SWPAs. The second reason local PSSCs are identified is because public water utilities may
consider expanding the PSSC inventory effort outside of the SWPAs, if necessary, to properly identify
threats that could impact their drinking water supply source(s). As the utility considers threats in the
watershed they may consider collaborating with nearby communities to identify and manage regional
PSSCs.
When conducting local and regional PSSC inventories, some sources are or may be obvious, such as
above ground storage tanks, landfills, livestock confinement areas, highway or railroad rights-of-way,
and sewage treatment facilities. Others potential hazards may be more difficult to locate, such as
abandoned cesspools, underground tanks, French drains, dry wells, or old dumps and mines.
ALWI completed a desktop GIS survey of the SWPAs to verify the existence of PSSCs previously
identified in agency databases and historic documentation. ALWI also reviewed the SWPAs to locate
new PSSCs. Information on new or updated PSSCs can be found in Table 7.
17 Table 7. New Locally Identified Potential Significant Sources of Contamination
PSSC
Number
Map
Code
Site Name
Site Description
Comments
1
C-3
CONFIDENTIAL
Automotive Repair
Automotive repair shop; exact services not known
with certainty. Potential for vehicular fluid
replacement, storage and/or disposal.
Automotive Repair
Automotive repair shop; exact services not known
with certainty. Potential for vehicular fluid
replacement, storage and/or disposal.
2
C-3
CONFIDENTIAL
18 Prioritization of Potential Threats and Management Strategies
The identified PSSCs have been prioritized by potential threat based on water quality concerns,
proximity to system water sources, and other local concerns. In addition to identifying and prioritizing
PSSCs within the SWPA, local source water concerns may also focus on critical areas. For purposes of
this SWPP, a critical area is defined as an area, identified by local stakeholders, within or outside of
the SWPA, that may contain one or more PSSC(s), and/or within which immediate response would be
necessary to address the incident and to protect source waters.
The highest priority PSSCs or critical areas will be addressed first in the management plan. It may not
be feasible to develop management strategies for all of the PSSCs within the SWPA, depending on the
total number identified. Lower ranked PSSCs will be addressed in the future as time and resources
allow. To assess potential threats to source waters, the BCPSWD Potomac River WTP Protection
Team and ALWI have considered information regarding each PSSC.
After identifying local concerns, the BCPSWD Potomac River WTP Protection Team developed and
prioritized management strategies to protect the source water from contamination, in cooperation with
the WVBPH, local health departments, local emergency responders, OHSEM and other agencies and
organizations.
This task was completed at the BCPSWD Protection Team meeting, hosted at
BCPSWD’s main office on November 19, 2015. A list of local representatives involved in the decision
making process is provided in Table 6. Source management strategies are any actions taken to protect
the source water from specific PSSCs, categories of PSSCs (agricultural, commercial, etc.), and critical
areas. It is advisable to focus source management strategies on high-priority PSSCs, with a particular
focus on those that are within the utility’s jurisdiction. However, the utility can protect against
contaminant sources outside of its jurisdiction by working with the officials of the entities within
which the sources and/or PSSC(s) are located. In this regard, BCPSWD is now a member of the
Potomac River Basin Source Water Protection Partnership (PRBSWPP). The PRBSWPP is a voluntary
association of water suppliers and government agencies focused on protecting sources of drinking
water in the Potomac River basin. Through quarterly meetings, focused work groups, and topical
information sessions, the Partnership is identifying a strategy for carrying forward source water
protection. Also, if watershed groups are active in the area of concern, the utility may be able to
partner with them.
19 Table 8 presents a list of priority PSSCs and critical areas that were selected and ranked by the
BCPSWD Potomac River Plant Protection Team. This list reflects the concerns of BCPSWD and local
government representatives and may contain PSSCs not previously identified and not within the
SWPAs. It contains a description of why each critical area or PSSC is considered a threat.
Implementation Plan for Management Strategies
Source management strategies are any actions taken to protect source waters from specific PSSCs,
categories of PSSCs, and critical areas. For example, prohibitions of certain land uses or facilities,
design standards, best management practices, operating standards, and reporting requirements are
typical source management strategies. Land purchases, conservation easements, and purchase of
development rights are also considered source management strategies. As a management strategy,
water utilities may also consider notification to and coordination with government agencies during a
water supply impairment event. Finally, one strategy all water utilities should implement is periodic
surveys of their SWPAs to maintain an active and updated inventory and awareness of potential
threats.
For source management and education/outreach strategies, this utility has considered how the
strategies will be implemented. The initial step in implementation is to discuss responsible parties and
timelines for implementation of strategies. The Protection Team members will determine the best
process for completing activities within the projected time periods. Additional meetings may be needed
during the initial effort to complete activities, after which the Protection Team should consider meeting
annually to review and update the SWPP. A system of regular updates should be included in every
implementation plan.
Proposed commitments and schedules related to both protection strategies and education/outreach
strategies may change. The BCPSWD Potomac River WTP Protection Team has developed an
implementation plan (Table 9) for each PSSC that is listed in the Prioritization of Threats section
(Table 8). The responsible team member, timeline and any additional comments for each management
strategy are presented in Table 9.
20 Table 8. Priority PSSCs or Critical Areas
PSSC or
Critical Area
Priority
Number
Reason for Concern
1
Both the Potomac River Intake and 3 groundwater supply wells serving the System are susceptible to accidental leaks and spills of
vehicle fluids or hazardous freight. I-81 and Route 11 cross the Potomac River approximately 5 and 6 miles up-gradient of the
Potomac River Intake, respectively. The area is underlain by karst terrain which puts groundwater sources at a higher risk from
surficial contaminants as well. Both the I-81 Corridor and Route 11 also pass through the SWPA associated with the 3 groundwater
supply wells serving the System.
Railroad
2
Railroads present a potential threat to surface water and shallow karst aquifers due to the possibility of spills and train derailments.
The Winchester and Western Railroad crosses the Potomac River less than 4 miles upstream of the Potomac River Intake. The
Railroad also runs through the ZCC along the Potomac River for approximately 4 miles until it turns South below Falling Waters,
WV. It then passes through the SWPA associated with the 3 Potomac River Plant groundwater wells.
Wastewater
Treatment Plants
3
There are several Wastewater Treatment Plants within and just outside the ZCC associated with the Potomac River Intake.
Wastewater discharge poses a threat due to the introduction of nutrients (which may contribute to eutrophication) and pathogens.
Surface Mines &
Fly Ash Pits
4
The Potomac River Intake is potentially threatened by heavy metals, which may leach from fly ash ponds and pits into nearby surface
water bodies and shallow groundwater aquifers. These operations present a potential hazard through slow seepage of contaminated
groundwater into the Potomac River via recharge pathways, or by the potential for ponds to rupture or burst, rapidly releasing
potentially contaminated water into the Potomac River or shallow groundwater aquifer. There are several Fly Ash Pits and Surface
Mining operations within the ZCC for the Potomac River Intake.
Commercial &
Industrial
Activities
5
Facilities such as gas stations and auto repair shops lie within and just outside both the ZCC and SWPA for the Potomac River WTP
and pose a threat due to the potential for accidental leaks, spills, improper disposal of petroleum products and other wastes, or
improperly managed stormwater runoff.
Sinkholes
6
When sinkholes occur a direct conduit from the surface to groundwater is created and natural soil filtration processes are bypassed.
Water quality threats are dependent on land use. This hazard is applicable to the three groundwater supply wells serving the system.
Septic Systems
& Public Sewer
7
Agricultural
Activities
8
Highways (I-81
& Route 11)
The status of some older septic systems is unknown and failures and leaks are possible. Unlike other areas, in karst terrain a septic
tends to fail downwards and can therefore be virtually undetectable. Public sewer expansion is more favorable, but sinkhole
monitoring and leak detection are encouraged.
Due to agricultural land use in the area, nutrient levels can become elevated in surrounding surface water bodies and/or the
underlying groundwater system.
21 Table 9. Priority PSSC Management Strategies
PSSC or
Critical
Area
Highways
(I-81 &
Route 11)
Railroad
Wastewater
Treatment
Plants
Management Activity
BCPSWD, in conjunction with Berkeley County OHSEM, will work with the
Department of Transportation (DOT) to explore opportunities to create and manage prestocked emergency spill response kits at state operated facilities along highway and
railroad corridors (including the facility at Tabler Station Road). Alternative plans will
be arranged should an agreement not be reached by these entities. The county currently
possesses 25 bags of absorbent on hand with the possibility of acquiring up to 50
additional bags from neighboring emergency response entities. These entities may
contact Frederick County, VA for additional emergency response & coordination of
emergency equipment. OHSEM will work with LEPC coordinators and other emergency
personnel to ensure that BCPSWD receives timely notification in the event of highway
or other roadway spills within SWPAs.
BCPSWD and OHSEM will work with the DOT to explore traffic regulation options for
key highway corridors, and revisit postings of source water protection signs along these
roadways.
Berkeley County OHSEM will work with LEPC and other local emergency responders to
utilize the training materials provided by CSX railways (i.e., planning guides and inperson/on-site trainings, featuring a safety rail car) and their short line partners, which
include Winchester and Western. OHSEM and emergency responders will also work
with CSX to inquire about the Rail Respond program, which provides easy mobile access
to critical information about what's traveling on CSX rails. Information regarding these
programs is provided in Appendix F-7. Emergency personnel have also expressed
interest in performing routine Emergency Response drills for Highway and Railroad
spills.
BCPSWD will work with WV DEP or BPH to perform a Hazmat Re-route request to
prevent specific potential contaminants from being transported through system SWPAs.
These entities, along with OHSEM, will work with railroad companies to discuss safety
measures, emergency plans and inspection routine(s).
This potential threat might become less of an issue if the Potomac River Intake remained
closed during stormflow events. BCPSWD will map the nearest WWTPs, assess time of
travel, and establish communication pathways to receive notifications of failures.
Responsible
Protection
Team
Member
Mr. Eddie
Gochenour
Mr. Eddie
Gochenour
BCPSWD
Status /
Schedule
Comments
Staff time involving
members from BCPSWD,
DOT, and OHSEM.
Material costs for
additional spill response
kits/absorbent bags.
Mid-term
(2+ years)
Within 2
years
Mid-term
(2+ years)
Estimated Cost
The Berkeley
County
OHSEM
Director has
already started a
dialogue with
CSX to request
training
materials and
the use of the
CSX training
car within the
next two years.
Staff time involving
members from BCPSWD,
DOT, OHSEM, other
LEPC agencies and BPH
and/or WV DEP.
Staff time at the LEPC
level, and for members of
local emergency response
stations (e.g., local fire
department, police
department, etc.).
BCPSWD staff time
assessing time of travel
and communicating with
wastewater treatment
operators
22 PSSC or
Critical
Area
Management Activity
Responsible
Protection
Team Member
Status /
Schedule
Mining
Operations &
Fly Ash Pits
BCPSWD will conduct a cost estimate and feasibility study of implementing an
Early Warning Monitoring System to be located downgradient of these hazards,
which would analyze water quality parameters indicative of a release from these
facilities.
BCPSWD
Ongoing
Industrial &
Commercial
Activity
BCPSWD will request Groundwater Protection Plans (GPPs) and/or stormwater
management plans from WV DEP for commercial and industrial facilities located
within the SWPAs. From these the utility will investigate what (if any) preventative
pollution measures are already in place for these facilities. This will permit the utility
to better understand protection strategies already in place at these facilities and more
accurately determine the threat posed by specific facilities.
BCPSWD will educate facility owners on the potential threat of sinkhole
development caused by improper stormwater management.
BCPSWD will distribute site-specific Best Management Practice lists, along with
advanced hazardous materials containment options to facilities (which will include
vaulted Above ground Storage Tanks) on an as-needed basis.
Sinkholes
Region 9 will be researching available funding opportunities to create a SWPAspecific sinkhole management program. Currently, sinkholes that develop in the
County are the responsibility of private land owners and other similar entities
(including homeowner’s associations). The goal of the sinkhole management
program will be to assign responsibility for mitigation and repair to relevant parties,
encourage routine investigations along key travel corridors and provide advice and
funding opportunities for sinkholes that develop on lands within the SWPA.
Implementation of this task will take many years and cooperation from multiple
public and private entities. The recommended sinkhole management plan is broadly
based upon the Carroll County, MD sinkhole management plan.
BCPSWD
Region 9
Comments
Estimated Cost
Mid- term
(2+ years)
Education outreach
and voluntary
strategies such as
these are the most
effective means of
source water
protection for this
hazard at this time,
as more restrictive
localized regulations
cannot be
implemented.
BCPSWD staff time
putting together
information
packets/materials for
commercial business
owners, as well as
research time to pull
GPPs from WV
DEP records.
10+ years
Currently, there is
not a specific
government entity
that oversees
sinkhole mitigation
and repair once
lands have been
developed. The
Planning
Department only has
regulations in place
to address existing
sinkholes on lands
that have not been
developed.
Region 9 staff time
researching
available grant
funding
opportunities.
BCPSWD staff time
for utilizing funding
information
provided by Region
9.
County Council,
BCPSWD and DEP
staff time for
determining how
best to allocate
potentially available
funds.
23 PSSC or
Critical
Area
Management Activity
Septic
Systems &
Public
Sewer
BCPSWD will work with Public Sewer to develop a leak detection protocol
and recommend areas which would benefit from incorporation into the public
sewer system, as development occurs.
BCPSWD will work with the Health Department, to the degree feasible, to
encourage homeowners to maintain and routinely inspect their septic systems
or replace old or failing septic systems with Best Available Technologies
(BATs).
Agricultural
Activities
BCPSWD will work with the County Extension Service, the Soil and Water
Conservation District, and/or Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)
to encourage agricultural land owners to participate in nutrient management
planning, forest conservation, land retirement and management programs
(including riparian zone preservation or restoration) within the SWPA. Efforts
here will focus on education and outreach measures.
Previous
Plan Status
There were seven management strategies recommended in the existing
BCPSWD Potomac River (Groundwater Source) SWPP. Two of these
strategies have been undertaken. Five of these are ongoing or continue to be a
concern, and have been addressed in the management recommendations
presented above. In some instances, previous recommended management
strategies were revised to reflect changes in latest technologies and methods
available to achieve improved source water protection strategies. The previous
SWPP, with the original management activities, is provided in Appendix F-3.
Responsible
Protection
Team
Member
Status /
Schedule
BCPSWD
Pending
BCPSWD
Long
Term (5+
years)
BCPSWD
Starting
or ending
in 2014
(See
Appendix
F-3)
Comments
BCPSWD will pursue
this recommendation at
the time of the next
Sewer Expansion Plan
update. Extending the
gravity sanitary sewer
system to every resident
in the county is not
feasible.
Nutrient management
plans are not required for
agricultural facilities
within Berkeley County
but are provided at no
cost by the USDA
NRCS.
No comments were
provided in the previous
SWPP.
Estimated Cost
BCPSWD staff time and
public sewer staff time to
determine priority sewer
expansion areas.
Material costs associated
with expansion of sewers.
Staff time providing
informational materials.
BCPSWD staff time
associated with raising
local awareness of the
existence of these
programs.
No cost estimates were
provided in the previous
SWPP.
24 Education and Outreach Strategies
The goals of education and outreach strategies are to raise awareness of the need to protect drinking
water supplies and build support for implementation strategies. Education and outreach activities will
also help ensure that affected citizens and other local stakeholders remain informed and are provided
an opportunity to contribute to the development of the SWPP. The BCPSWD Potomac River WTP has
created an Education and Outreach plan to keep the local community involved in protecting their
sources of drinking water in the future. This information can be found in Table 10.
25 Table 10. Education and Outreach Implementation Plan
Education
and Outreach
Strategy
Become an
PRBSWPP
member
General
Information
Dissemination
BMP lists
Public
Workshops
Description of Activity
At the outset of this SWAP, we recommended that BCPSWD
become a member of the PRBSWPP (Potomac River Basin
Source Water Protection Partnership), which is an interstate
program that provides SWP education and outreach opportunities,
among various other services oriented towards protecting and
improving the quality of water for the Potomac River. BCPSWD
has since joined this organization and participates in quarterly
meetings and training/educational opportunities as they occur.
BCPSWD will include educational information on the following
topics on their website for public use: source water protection,
water conservation, household hazardous materials disposal,
pharmaceuticals disposal, observing and reporting spills/leaks.
Distribute lists of industry specific BMPs to the owners of (1)
Gas Stations, (2) Car Repair Shops, (3) Agricultural
Lands/Facilities within the SWPA (Future Farmers, etc.). Provide
SWPP education materials.
Present Source Water Protection information at already scheduled
public meetings (i.e. utility board meetings) and/or plan a Source
Water specific Public Presentation.
Responsible
Protection
Team
Member
BCPSWD
BCPSWD
BCPSWD
BCPSWD
Status /
Schedule
Comments
Estimated Cost
Ongoing
BCPSWD is
now an
active
member of
the
PRBSWPP.
Staff time attending
and contributing to
meetings.
Short Term
(1-2 years)
Staff time pulling
together information
and making it
available to public.
Short Term
(1-2 years)
Staff time creating
BMP lists using
published/provided
materials
Pending
Status /
Schedule
will be
evaluated
based on
participation
and
perceived
need.
Staff time preparing
for and hosting
workshops
26 Education
and Outreach
Strategy
Description of Activity
Clean Up
Events
Coordinate with local Clean Up efforts and publicize projects.
Work closely with Watershed Associations in this regard.
Early
Education
Display
Information
Work with area schools to include source water protection
information into the curriculum, or present information at
assemblies or in classroom events (e.g., environmental science
class).
Include informational materials (i.e., brochures, maps, etc.) in
county government offices and other public places (i.e., local
fairs). Host non-confidential SWPP online for public review and
comment. Work with DOT for protection area sign
expansion/coverage.
Responsible
Protection
Team
Member
Status /
Schedule
BCPSWD
Long Term
(5+ years)
Staff time associated
with watershed group
coordination
BCPSWD
Long Term
(5+ years)
Staff time providing
information to school
system or attending
events/classes
BCPSWD,
Region 9 &
WV BPH
Ongoing /
As local
events
occur
Staff time creating
and displaying
relevant information
Comments
Estimated Cost
27 Contingency Plan
The goal of contingency planning is to identify and document how the utility will prepare for and respond to
drinking water shortages or emergencies that may occur due to short and long term water interruption, or
incidents of contamination resulting from spills or other events. BCPSWD staff examined the Potomac River
WTP’s capability to protect their sources, treatment, and distribution system from contamination. They also
reviewed their ability to use alternative water sources and minimize water loss, as well as their ability to operate
during power outages. In addition, the utility has reported on the feasibility of establishing an early warning
monitoring system and meeting future water demands.
Isolating or diverting possibly contaminated water from a surface water intake for a public water system is an
important strategy in the event of an emergency. One commonly used method of diverting contaminated water
from an intake is establishing booms around the intake. This can be effective, but only for contaminants that
float on the surface of the water, such as hydrocarbons. Alternatively, utilities can choose to pump floating
contaminants from the water or chemically neutralize the contaminant before it enters the treatment facility.
Public utilities using surface sources should be able to close the intake by one means or another. However,
depending upon the system, methods for doing so could vary greatly from closing valves, lowering hatches or
gates, raising the intake piping out of the water, or shutting down pumps. Systems should have plans in place in
advance as to the best method to protect the intake and treatment facility. Utilities may benefit from turning off
pumps and, if possible, closing the intake opening to prevent contaminants from entering the piping leading to
the pumps. Utilities also should have a plan in place to sample raw water to identify the movement of a plume
and allow for maximum pumping time before shutting down an intake (See Early Warning Monitoring System).
The amount of time that an intake can remain closed depends on the water infrastructure and should be
determined by the utility before an emergency occurs. BCPSWD’s Water Shortage Response Capability is
detailed in Table 11 and addresses many of the points raised above. The longer an intake can remain closed in
such a case, the better.
28 For groundwater sources, such as Wells A, B and D for the Potomac River WTP, diverting or removing
contaminated groundwater can be extremely difficult and costly. It may involve removing contaminated
groundwater via pump and treat methods, or by implementing other remediation technologies. Systems have
contingency plans in place to protect each source and treatment facility during contaminant events. The
BCPSWD Potomac River WTP can protect their sources by turning off pumps and closing valves to prevent
contamination of the treatment plant and/or distribution system. The amount of time that a source can remain
offline depends, in part, on the water infrastructure, and should be determined by the utility before an
emergency occurs. For groundwater sources, other factors, such as geologic strata orientation and configuration,
contaminant type, contaminant viscosity, and retention also affect the period of time over which a groundwater
source (or sources) may not be usable. The longer a source (or sources) can remain offline in such a case via
interconnections and backup sources, the better equipped and flexible a water system will be for responding to
emergency events. Incorporation of advanced treatment options into the water system, while expensive, may
also offer additional options during contamination events, with the specific treatment methods dependent on the
type of contaminant introduced into the groundwater supply.
Treated water storage capacity also becomes important in the event of an emergency or contaminant release.
Storage capacity can directly determine how well a water system can respond to a contamination event and how
long a source can remain offline. Information regarding the water shortage response capability of the BCPSWD
Potomac River WTP is provided in Table 11.
Response Networks and Communication
Statewide initiatives for emergency response, including source water related incidents, are being developed.
These include the West Virginia Water/Wastewater Agency Response Network (WV WARN, see
http://www.wvwarn.org/)
and
the
Rural
Water
Association
Emergency
Response
Team
(see
http://www.wvrwa.org/). The BCPSWD Potomac River WTP has analyzed its ability to effectively respond to
emergencies and this information is provided in Table 11.
29 Table 11.The BCPSWD Potomac River WTP Water Shortage Response Capability
Can the utility isolate or divert contamination
from the intake or groundwater supply?
No for groundwater and surface water sources.
Describe the utility’s capability to isolate or
divert potential contaminants:
CONFIDENTIAL
Can the utility switch to an alternative water
source or intake that can supply full capacity
at any time?
Describe in detail the utility’s capability to
switch to an alternative source:
Can the utility close the water intake to
prevent contamination from entering the
water supply?
How long can the intake stay closed?
Describe the process to close the intake:
Yes
CONFIDENTIAL
Yes
Approximately two days, relies upon storage
tanks for system demand.
CONFIDENTIAL
30 Describe the treated water storage capacity of
the water system:
Is the utility a member of WVRWA
Emergency Response Team?
Is the utility a member of WV-WARN?
List any other mutual aid agreements to
provide or receive assistance in the event of an
emergency:
Marlowe
GM
1.0 MG
0.5 MG
Ridge
Mountain
0.25 MG
0.5 MG
Duke
Street
0.75 MG
Ferrell
Ridge
0.25 MG
Cumbo
2.0 MG
Total
5.25 MG
Yes
Yes
BCPSWD has a purchase agreement with the
City of Martinsburg for up to 1,000,000 gpd;
they currently purchase 225,000 gpd. BCPSWD
also has interconnections with their Bunker Hill
WTP.
Operation During Loss of Power
The BCPSWD Potomac River Water System analyzed and examined its ability to operate effectively during a
loss of power. This involved ensuring a means to supply water through treatment, storage, and distribution
without creating a public health emergency. Information regarding the utility’s capacity for operation during
power outages is shown in Table 12.
31 Table 12. Generator Capacity
What is the type and capacity of the
CONFIDENTIAL
generator needed to operate during a
loss of power?
Can the utility connect to generator at
Yes, CONFIDENTIAL.
intake/wellhead? If yes, describe a
scenario that best describes system.
Can the utility connect to generator at
No, CONFIDENTIAL.
treatment facility? If yes, describe a
scenario that best describes system.
Can the utility connect to a generator in
Yes, CONFIDENTIAL.
distribution system? If yes, describe a
scenario that best describes system.
The water district has adequate fuel storage on site for
Does the utility have adequate fuel on
the district’s portable generator.
hand for the generator?
What is your on-hand fuel storage and
Gallons
Hours
how long will it last operating at full
CONFIDENTIAL
CONFIDENTIAL
capacity?
Provide a list of
Supplier
Contact Name
Phone Number
suppliers that
Allegheny Power
Customer Service Rep 888-254-6359
Generator
could provide
WV National Guard
Garrison Commander
304-267-2772
Generator
generators and
Roach Oil
Associate
304-263-3329
Fuel
fuel in the event
Griffith Energy
Associate
888-721-5707
Fuel
of an emergency:
Yes, the water district tests the portable generator
Does the utility test the generator(s)
monthly.
periodically?
Yes, the district performs annual maintenance on the
Does the utility routinely maintain the
portable generator by its in-house staff.
generator?
At the Potomac River plant, there is not a quick connect
for a portable generator. The facility is designed so that
the power system is wired through two independent
If no scenario describing the ability to
control panels on two separate power grids. If power
connect to generator matches the
goes out on one grid, the panel that is wired to the
utility’s system or if utility does not
powered grid will automatically come online and will
have ability to connect to a generator,
provide power to the facility. In the instance that both
describe plans to respond to power
grids would be out, a portable generator would have to be
outages:
hardwired into the facility OR the City of Martinsburg
and the Bunker Hill interconnection be utilized after the
utility’s storage capacity has been depleted.
Future Water Supply Needs
When planning for potential emergencies and developing contingency plans, a utility needs to not only consider
their current demands for treated water but also account for likely future needs (future demand). This could
32 mean expanding current sources (e.g., removing water at greater rates than present) or developing new sources
in the near future. This can be an expensive and time consuming process, and the water utility should take this
into account when determining emergency preparedness. The BCPSWD Potomac River WTP has analyzed its
ability to meet future water demands at current capacity, and this information is included in Table 13.
Table 13. Future Water Supply Needs for the BCPSWD Potomac River WTP
Is the utility able to meet water
demands with the current
production capacity over the
next 5 years? If so, explain how
you plan to do so.
If not, describe the
circumstances and plans to
increase production capacity:
Yes, the Potomac River WTP has a capacity of 6 MGD, while
the current maximum production is 4 MGD. There is currently a
production capacity analysis study occurring due to a new large
usage customer on the system (Proctor & Gamble). The SWPP
should be updated to reflect these changes once P&G is added
to BCPSWD’s customer base.
Once the production and analysis study is complete, the
BCPSWD will assess any and all system capacity
options/upgrades.
Water Loss Calculation
In any public water system there is a certain percentage of the total treated water that does not reach the
customer. Some of this water is used in treatment plant processes such as back washing filters or flushing
piping, but there is usually at least a small percentage that goes unaccounted for due to the presence of leaks in
the distribution system. To measure and report on this unaccounted for water, a public utility must use the same
method used in the Public Service Commission’s rule, Rules for the Government of Water Utilities, 150CSR7,
section 5.6. The rule defines unaccounted for water as the volume of water introduced into the distribution
system less all metered usage and all known non-metered usage which can be estimated with reasonable
accuracy.
To further clarify, metered usages are most often those that are distributed to customers. Non-metered usages
that are typically estimated include water used by fire departments for fires or training, un-metered bulk sales,
flushing to maintain the distribution system, backwashing filters, and cleaning settling basins. By totaling the
metered and non-metered uses the utility calculates unaccounted for water. Note: To complete annual reports
submitted to the Public Service Commission, utilities typically account for known water main breaks by
estimating the amount of water lost. However, for the purposes of the SWPP, any water lost due to leaks, even
if the system is aware of how much water is lost at a main break, is not considered a use. Water lost through
leaks and main breaks cannot be controlled during water shortages or other emergencies. Therefore, these
33 circumstances are included in the calculation of percentage of water loss for purposes of the SWPP. The data in
Table 14 were taken from the most recently submitted BCPSWD combined system Annual Report; the data
were not available in a manner that isolates water loss by WTP.
Table 14. Water Loss Information
Total Water Pumped (gal)
1,695,168,000
Total Water Purchased (gal)
82,390,000
Total Water Pumped and Purchased (gal)
1,777,558,000
Mains, Plants, Filters, Flushing, etc.
58,434,000
Fire Department
1,890,000
Back Washing
16,740,000
Blowing Settling Basins
N/A
Water Loss
Accounted for Except
Main Leaks (gal)
Total Water Loss Accounted For Except Main Leaks
77,064,000
Water Sold- Total Gallons (gal)
1,348,394,000
Unaccounted For Lost Water (gal)
352,100,000
Water lost from main leaks (gal)
1,137,000
Total gallons of Unaccounted for Lost Water and Water Lost
from Main Leaks (gal)
353,237,000
Total Percent Unaccounted For Water and Water Lost from
Main Leaks (gal)
19.9%
If total percentage of
Unaccounted for Water is
greater than 15%, please
describe any measures that
could be taken to correct
this problem:
The BCPSWD Potomac River WTP utilizes a leak noise correlation
system that listens to the distribution system and produces a report
indicating potential leak noise. If the system were also to install
meter pits throughout the system, the flow could be monitored by
systematically closing valves in designated areas and inspecting the
system’s master meter to note when flow decreases (See Appendix
F-6 Engineering Evaluation for more information).
34 Early Warning Monitoring System
Public water utilities are required to provide an examination of the technical and economic feasibility of
implementing an early warning monitoring system. Implementing an early warning monitoring system may be
approached in different ways depending upon the water utility’s resources and specific threats to source waters.
A utility may install a continuous monitoring system that will provide real time information regarding water
quality conditions. This would require utilities to analyze the data in order to establish which conditions are
indicative of baseline water quality results and which are indicative of a contamination event. Continuous
monitoring provides results for a predetermined list of water quality parameters. The more parameters being
monitored, the more sophisticated the monitoring equipment will be. When establishing continuous monitoring
systems, a utility considers the logistics of placing and maintaining the equipment, and receiving output data
from the equipment.
Alternately, or additionally, a utility may also pull periodic grab samples on a regular basis, or when
contaminant incidents occur. The grab samples often are analyzed for specific contaminants, either to help
ensure that water quality parameters are within baseline levels, or to assess abnormalities in water quality
results that may be spurred by contaminant events. A utility should examine their PSSCs to determine which
contaminants could pose a threat to the water sources. If possible, the utility should plan in advance for how
those contaminants will be measured and detected. Consideration should be given for where samples will be
collected, the preservations and hold times for samples, laboratories available to analyze samples, and costs
associated with the sampling event. Regardless of the type of monitoring (continuous or grab), utilities should
collect samples for their source throughout the year to better understand the baseline water quality conditions
and natural seasonal fluctuations. Having a baseline will help determine if changes in the water quality are
indicative of a contamination event and inform the needed response.
Every utility should establish a system or process for receiving or detecting chemical threats with sufficient time
to respond to protect the treatment facility and public health. All approaches to receiving and responding to an
early warning that poses a threat to water quality should incorporate communication with facility owners and
operators, with state and local emergency response agencies, with surrounding water utilities, and with the
system’s customers. Communication plays an important role in knowing how to interpret data and how to
respond.
35 The BCPSWD Potomac River WTP has analyzed its ability to monitor for and detect potential contaminants
that could impact its source water. Information regarding this utility’s early warning monitoring system
capabilities can be found in Table 15 and in Appendix B.
Table 15. Early Warning Monitoring System Capabilities
Does your system currently receive spill
notifications from a state agency, neighboring
water system, local emergency responders, or
other facilities? If yes, from whom do you
receive notices?
Yes; notifications received from the West Virginia
Department of Environmental Protection and Local
Fire and Police Stations. The Department of Health
and Human Resources Bureau for Public Health
also sends out emails regarding spills reported
throughout the County.
Are you aware of any facilities, land uses, or
critical areas within your protection areas where
chemical contaminants could be released or
spilled?
Yes, details may be found in Table 8 of this report and
Appendix A.
Are you prepared to detect potential
contaminants if notified of a spill?
Yes, water chemistry is tested every 4 hours through
raw water grab samples taken from a raw water tap
within the Treatment Plant. The utility implements
monitoring of turbidity, pH, manganese and
temperature parameters. Monitoring for VOCs and
SOCs are completed through Reliance Laboratories,
Inc. If any parameter is close or above the specified
MCL, an investigation into the cause will occur and
the appropriate actions will be authorized. The utility
continuously monitors pH and manganese for the
system effluent.
Laboratories
Name
List laboratories (and contact
information) on which you
would rely to analyze water
samples in case of a reported
spill.
Contact
CONFIDENTIAL
CONFIDENTIAL
CONFIDENTIAL
Do you have an understanding of baseline or
normal conditions for your source water quality
that accounts for seasonal fluctuations?
Yes; turbidity, temperature, Manganese, and pH are
monitored and recorded on a daily basis.
36 Does your utility currently monitor raw water
(through continuous monitoring or periodic grab
samples) at the surface water intake or from a
groundwater source on a regular basis?
Provide or estimate the capital and O&M costs
for your current or proposed early warning
system or upgraded system.
Yes turbidity, temperature, Manganese, and pH are
monitored and recorded on a daily basis prior to
treatment.
Capital
CONFIDENTIAL
Yearly O & M
CONFIDENTIAL
Do you serve more than 100,000 customers? If
so, please describe the methods you use to
monitor at the same technical levels utilized by
ORSANCO.
No
Single Source Feasibility Study
If a public water utility’s water supply plant is served by a single–source intake for a surface water supply
source or a GWUDI source, the submitted SWPP must also include an examination and analysis of the technical
and economic feasibility of alternative sources of water to provide continued safe and reliable public water
service in the event its primary source of supply is detrimentally affected by contamination from a chemical
release or spill event, or other reasons (including drought). These alternatives may include a secondary source,
raw or treated water storage, interconnection with neighboring systems, or other options identified on a local
level. A secondary water supply source should draw water from a substantially different location or water
source to best prevent contamination of both sources.
The BCPSWD Potomac River WTP is actively supplied by more than one source. If a contamination event were
to impact the Potomac River intake, the system could rely on the three groundwater wells (Wells A, B, and D)
and its interconnection with the City of Martinsburg. Should the groundwater wells become contaminated, the
utility could rely on the surface water intake and their connection with the City of Martinsburg to supply its
customers. The BCPSWD has a purchase agreement with the City of Martinsburg (PWSID #WV3300212) for
up to 1 million gallons per day. As a result, completion of the Feasibility Study Matrix spreadsheet was not
required for this system; however, a brief narrative is attached (Appendix E) which describes the alternatives
already in place.
37 Communication Plan
The Protection Team for this water system also has developed a Communication Plan that documents the
manner in which the public water utility, working in concert with state and local emergency response agencies,
shall notify the local health agencies and the public of a spill or contamination event, and provide updated
information related to any contamination or impairment of the system’s sources or the system's drinking water
supply. The initial notification to the public for any such event will occur no later than 30 minutes after the
public water system becomes aware of the spill, release, or potential contamination of the public water system.
The Protection Team will update the Communication Plan continually to ensure contact information is up to
date.
The water system has procedures in place for various types of significant spills or other emergencies that can
reasonably be predicted at the source location or within the SWPA. The chain-of-command, notification
procedures and response actions are known by water system employees, and BCPSWD will be working with
OHSEM and emergency response personnel to improve the communication and first response systems over the
next two years.
The WVBPH has developed a recommended communication plan template that provides a Tiered Incident
communication process to provide a universal system of alert levels to utilities and water system managers;
BCPSWD Potomac River WTP has opted to utilize this procedure. The Communication Plan for the BCPSWD
Potomac River WTP is included in Appendix C.
The WVDEP is capable of providing expertise and assistance related to prevention, containment, and clean-up
of chemical spills. The WVDEP Emergency Response 24-hour Phone is 1-800-642-3074. The WVDEP also
operates an upstream distance estimator that can be used to determine the distance from a spill site to the closest
public water supply sources.
38 Emergency Response Short Form
A public water utility must be prepared for any number of emergency scenarios and events that would require immediate
response. It is imperative that information about key contacts, emergency services, and downstream water systems be
posted and readily available in the event of an emergency. Elements of this SWPP, such as the contingency plan and
communication plan, may contain similar information to the utility’s Emergency Response Plan (ERP). However, the
ERP is confidential and is not included in this SWPP. An Emergency Short Form is included in Appendix C to support
the Communication Plan by providing quick access to important information about emergency response.
Conclusion
This report represents a detailed explanation of the required elements of the BCPSWD Potomac River WTP’s
SWPP. Any supporting documentation or other materials that the utility considers relevant to their plan can be
found in the Appendices of this report.
This SWPP is intended to help prepare BCPSWD to properly handle emergencies that might compromise the
quality of the system’s source water supply. It is imperative that this SWPP be updated as often as necessary to
reflect the changing circumstances within the water system. The Protection Team should continue to meet
regularly and continue to engage the public whenever possible. The community taking local responsibility for
the quality of their source water is the most effective way to prevent contamination and protect the water system
against contaminated source water. Community cooperation, sufficient preparation, and accurate and reliable
monitoring are all critical components of this SWPP, and a multi-faceted approach is the only way to ensure
that a system is best protected against source water contamination.
39 Appendix A. Figures
40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 Appendix B. Early Warning Monitoring System Forms
The following forms have been prepared by WV BPH for use by public utilities, with the proper
form dependent on source type (surface or groundwater) and the presence or absence of an early
warning monitoring system. The appropriate forms for this utility to complete are Forms A and
C, as the utility has an existing early warning monitoring system. Form B is included to provide
information to create a more robust early warning monitoring system for the Potomac River
Plant’s surface water intake.
Form A-Complete if you currently have an early warning monitoring system installed for a surface
water source
Form B-If you do not currently have an early warning monitoring system installed for a surface water
intake or are planning to upgrade or replace your current system, complete this form.
Form C-Complete if you currently have an early warning monitoring system for a groundwater
source.
Form D-If you do not currently have an early warning monitoring system installed for a groundwater
source or are planning to upgrade or replace your current system, complete this form.
56 Appendix B- Form A
Existing Early Warning Monitoring System Worksheet- Surface Water Source
Describe the type of early warning detection equipment installed.
CONFIDENTIAL
Describe the mechanism used to store data and an institutional framework to analyze and
interpret the data.
CONFIDENTIAL
Describe the process used to determine the credibility of a contamination event if a change is
detected in the quality of source water.
The Potomac River plant utilizes the Potomac River Basin Commission, local and regional news,
West Virginia Department of Protection, and the West Virginia State Health and Human Services
Department to determine credibility of a spill, contaminant, or change in water quality.
57 Appendix B-Form B
Proposed Early Warning Monitoring System Worksheet- Potomac River Intake
Describe the type of early warning detection equipment that could be installed, including the
design.
CONFIDENTIAL
Where would the equipment be located?
CONFIDENTIAL
What would the maintenance plan for the monitoring equipment entail?
CONFIDENTIAL
Describe the proposed sampling plan at the monitoring site.
CONFIDENTIAL
Describe the proposed procedures for data management and analysis.
CONFIDENTIAL
58 Appendix B-Form C
Existing Early Warning Monitoring System Worksheet- Groundwater Source
Describe the type of early warning detection equipment installed.
CONFIDENTIAL
How many monitoring (sentinel) wells are established?
None. Due to the complex hydrogeologic setting and widespread geospatial position of PSSCs, there is no
guarantee that installation of monitoring wells would provide adequate advanced notification of contamination in
the groundwater system. Monitoring wells may be considered in the future if outside funding sources are
available.
What is the expected rate of travel of a contaminant through the groundwater system?
Travel times are highly dependent on the 1.) Location of the contaminant source with respect to system sources,
2.) Hydraulic conductivity (0.6 – 120.0 m/d, according to the USGS) of geologic formations, which reflects the
degree to which fractures are naturally enlarged and 3.) Hydraulic gradient along groundwater flow pathways. As
such, travel times vary significantly throughout the SWPA and change as hydrologic conditions change.
Provide the distance from the contaminant source to the monitoring wells.
CONFIDENTIAL
What is the distance of the monitoring equipment to the wellhead?
CONFIDENTIAL
Describe the mechanism used to store data and an institutional framework to analyze and interpret the
data.
CONFIDENTIAL
Describe the process used to determine the credibility of a contamination event if a change is detected in the
quality of source water.
If a notable change is detected in water quality for a parameter regularly monitored, an additional water quality
sample will be taken immediately for result verification. If the result is confirmed, more comprehensive testing
could be performed, depending on the type of water quality change observed (for the purpose of differentiating
between hazard types). BCPSWD Potomac River WTP personnel may also choose to shut down the Well pumps
or close the River Intake until an appropriate course of action is determined. This would not affect the quality or
quantity of water delivered to customers, as the utility can continue to operate with either its surface source or its
groundwater sources offline, as well as relying on interconnections with other systems.
If the sample is in violation of an MCL, an additional water quality sample will be taken immediately for result
verification. As water quality results are pending, BCPSWD Potomac River WTP personnel should shut down the
well pumps and close the River intake until an appropriate course of action is determined. This would not affect
the quality or quantity of water delivered to customers, as the utility can continue to operate with either its surface
source or its groundwater sources offline, as well as relying on interconnections with other systems.
59 Appendix B-Form D Not Applicable to BCPSWD Potomac River WTP
Proposed Early Warning Monitoring System Worksheet- Groundwater Source
Describe the type of ground water monitoring network that could be installed, including the
design and location.
How many monitoring (sentinel) wells would need to be established?
What is the expected rate of travel of a contaminant through the groundwater system?
Provide the distance from the contaminant source to the proposed monitoring wells.
What is the distance from the proposed monitoring equipment to the wellhead?
What would the maintenance plan for the monitoring equipment entail?
Describe the proposed sampling plan at the monitoring site.
Describe the proposed procedures for data management and analysis.
60 Appendix C. Communication Plan
61 Communication Plan Template
For The BCPSWD Potomac River Plant Public Water System
PWSID: __WV3300218 ________________ District: _____Kearneysville__________
Certified Operator: ___CONFIDENTIAL___________________________________
Contact Phone Number: ___________________________________________
Contact Email Address: __ ____________________________
Plan Developed On: _5/24/2016__ Plan Update Due On: _5/24/2019__
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS:
This plan was developed by Berkeley County Public Service Water District to meet certain
requirements of the Source Water and Assessment Protection Program (SWAPP) and the Wellhead
Protection Program (WHPP) for the State of West Virginia, as directed by the federal Safe Drinking
Water Act (SDWA) and state laws and regulations.
62 Table of Contents
Introduction - 64
TIERS Reporting System - 64
Communication Team - 66
Communication Team Duties - 67
Incident / Event Communication Procedure - 68
TIERS Flow Chart – 69
Press Release Attachments – 70
Emergency Short Forms - 75
Emergency Contact Information - 79
63 Introduction
Legislative Rule 64CSR3 requires public water systems to develop a Communication Plan that
documents how public water suppliers, working in concert with state and local emergency response
agencies, shall notify state and local health agencies and the public in the event of a spill or
contamination event that poses a potential threat to public health and safety. The plan must indicate
how the public water supplier will provide updated information, with an initial notification to the
public occurring no later than thirty minutes after the supplier becomes aware that the spill, release or
potential contamination of the public water system poses a potential threat to public health and safety.
The public water system has responsibility to communicate to the public, as well as to state and local
health agencies. This plan is intended to comply with the requirements of Legislative Rule 64CSR3,
and other state and federal regulations.
TIERS Reporting System
This water system has elected to use the Tiered Incident / Event Reporting System (TIERS) for
communicating with the public, agencies, the media, and other entities in the event of a spill or other
incident that may threaten water quality. TIERS provides a multi-level notification framework, which
escalates the communicated threat level commensurate with the drinking water system risks associated
with a particular contamination incident or event. TIERS also includes a procedural flow chart
illustrating key incident response communication functions and how they interface with overall event
response / incident management actions. Finally, TIERS identifies the roles and responsibilities for key
people involved in risk response, public notification, news media and other communication.
TIERS provides an easy-to-remember five-tiered A-B-C-D-E risk-based incident response
communication format, as described below. Table 1 also provides associated risk levels.
A = Announcement. The water system is issuing an announcement to the public and public
agencies about an incident or event that may pose a threat to water quality. Additional
information will be provided as it becomes available. As always, if water system customers
notice anything unusual about their water, they should contact the water system.
64 B = Boil Water. A boil water advisory has been issued by the water system. Customers may use
the water for showering, bathing, and other non-potable uses, but should boil water used for
drinking or cooking.
C = Cannot Drink. The water system asks that users not drink or cook with the water at this
time. Non-potable uses, such as showering, bathing, cleaning, and outdoor uses are not
affected.
D = Do Not Use. An incident or event has occurred affecting nearly all uses of the water. Do
not use the water for drinking, cooking, showering, bathing, cleaning, or other tasks where
water can come in contact with your skin. Water can be used for flushing commodes and fire
protection.
E = Emergency. Water cannot be used for any reason.
Tier
Tier Category
A
Announcement
B
Boil Water
C
Cannot Drink
D
Do Not Use
E
Emergency
Advisory
Risk
Level
Tier Summary
The water system is issuing an announcement to the
public and public agencies about an incident or
Low
event that could pose a threat to public health and
safety. Additional information will be provided as it
becomes available.
Water system users are advised to boil any water to
be used for drinking or cooking, due to possible
Moderate
microbial contamination. The system operator will
notify users when the boil water advisory is lifted.
System users should not drink or cook with the
High
water until further notice. The water can still be used
for showering, bathing, cleaning, and other tasks.
The water should only be used for flushing
Very
commodes and fire protection until further notice.
High
More information on this notice will be provided as
soon as it is available.
The water should not be used for any purpose until
Extremely
further notice. More information on this notice will
High
be provided as soon as it is available.
65 Communication Team
The Communication Team for the water system is listed in the table below, along with key roles. In the
event of a spill or other incident that may affect water quality, the water system spokesperson will
provide initial information, until the team assembles (if necessary) to provide follow-up
communication.
Water system communication team members, organizations, and roles:
Team Member
Name
Organization
Phone
Email
Role
CONFIDENTIAL
CONFIDENTIAL
CONFIDENTIAL
In the event of a spill, release, or other incident that may threaten water quality, members of the team
who are available will coordinate with the management staff of the local water supplier to:




Collect information needed to investigate, analyze, and characterize the incident/event
Provide information to the management staff, so they can decide how to respond
Assist the management staff in handling event response and communication duties
Coordinate fully and seamlessly with the management staff to ensure response effectiveness
66 Communication Team Duties
The communication team will be responsible for working cooperatively with the management staff and
state and local emergency response agencies to notify local health agencies and the public of the initial
spill or contamination event. The team will also provide updated information related to any
contamination or impairment of the source water supply or the system's drinking water supply.
According to Legislative Rule 64CSR3, the initial notification to the public will occur no later than
thirty minutes after the public water system becomes aware that the spill, release or potential
contamination of the public water system poses a potential threat to public health and safety.
As part of the group implementing the SWPP, team members are expected to be familiar with the plan,
including incident/event response and communication tasks. Specifically, team members should:







Be knowledgeable on elements of the SWPP and Communication Plan
Attend team meetings to ensure up-to-date knowledge of the system and its functions
Participate in periodic exercises that “game out” incident response and communication tasks
Help to educate local officials, the media, and others on source water protection
Cooperate with water supplier efforts to coordinate incident response communication
Be prepared to respond to requests for field investigations of reported incidents
Not speak on behalf of the water supplier unless designated as the system’s spokesperson
The primary spokesperson will be responsible for speaking on behalf of the water system to local
agencies, the public, and the news media; as well as working with the management staff and the
communication team to ensure that communication is clear, accurate, timely, and consistent. The
spokesperson may authorize and/or direct others to issue news releases or other information that has
been approved by the system’s management staff. The spokesperson is expected to be on call
immediately when an incident or event which may threaten water quality occurs. The spokesperson
will perform the following tasks in the event of a spill, release, or other event that threatens water
quality:
 Announce which risk level (A, B, C, D, or E) will apply to the public notifications that are





issued
Issue news releases, updates, and other information regarding the incident/event
Use the news media, email, social media, and other appropriate information venues
Ensure that news releases are sent to local health agencies and the public
Respond to questions from the news media and others regarding the incident/event
Appear at news conferences and interviews to explain incident response, etc.
67 Incident / Event Communication Procedure
The flow chart in this section illustrates how the water system will respond when it receives a report that a spill,
release, or other contamination event may have occurred. Key elements of the flow chart are described below.
Communication with agencies, the public, and the media during threat incidents
Upon initial notification of the incident/event, system managers and staff will collect information and verify the
need for further investigation. If further investigation is warranted, and the initial facts support it, the water
system spokesperson will issue a public communication statement consistent with the threat level. In addition,
water system personnel and partners will be dispatched to conduct reconnaissance, a threat assessment, and a
threat characterization, if present. This work may include collecting information about the:








Incident/event type (spill, release, etc.)
Location of incident/event
Type of material(s) involved in spill, release, etc.
Quantity of material involved
Potential of the material to move, migrate, or be transported
Relevant time factor(s) in the risk assessment (e.g., downstream movement rate)
Overall level of risk to water system, whether low, moderate, high, or very high
Development of the initial risk characterization
As the flow chart indicates, several iterative cycles will occur after the initial threat assessment, including
communication with local agencies and the public, further investigation of the incident, possible implementation
of the water system’s contingency plan, and eventual elimination of the threat and a return to normal operations.
Communication activities during this period will include:
 The initial release (i.e., Announcement, Boil Water, Cannot Drink, Do Not Use, or Emergency)
o
Sent to local health agencies, the public, and the news media within 30 minutes
 Notification of the local water system’s source water protection and communication teams
o
If warranted by initial findings regarding the spill, release, or incident
 Notification of the WV Bureau for Public Health
o
As required
 Periodic information updates, as incident response information is received
 Updates to the applicable A-B-C-D-E advisory tier, as necessary
After the threat level is reduced, and operations return to normal, the water system staff, the communication and
source water Protection Teams, and their partners may conduct a post-event review and assessment. The
purpose of the review is to examine the response to the incident, relevant communication activities, and overall
outcomes. Plans and procedures may be updated, altered, or adapted based on lessons learned through this
process.
68 TIERS Flow Chart
Public Water Supplier Becomes Aware of
Incident or Event
 Conduct initial assessment to determine
if the incident/event poses a risk to
public health and safety
Incident Poses a Potential Risk and
Requires Notification within 30 Minutes
 Public water supplier must issue
notification to the public and local
health agencies within 30 minutes of
determining that incident poses a risk
to public health and safety
Activate Incident Response
 Deploy incident assessment
personnel
Threat Assessment and Characterization
 Incident/event type (spill, release, etc.)
 Location of incident/event
 Material(s) involved in spill, release, etc.
 Quantity of material
 Material movement/migration potential
 Time factor(s) in risk assessment
 Level of risk to water system
o Low, moderate, high, very high
 Initial risk characterization
 Communicate*
Threat Level Remains or EscalatesCommunicate*
Incident Does Not Pose a Risk
No Further Investigation Is Needed
 Does not require notification to the public
and local health agencies in 30 minutes.
 Should notify that known incident does not
pose a risk.
Implement Contingency Plan if Necessary
 Replace/augment water source
 Adapt as necessary
 Communicate*
Threat is Reduced or
Eliminated- Communicate*
Return to Normal Operations
 Monitor any new developments
 Continue managing operations &
source water protection program
 Communicate*
Review Incident, Adapt Approach
 Incident response/investigation
 Communication activities
 Contingency operations
Communicate*
Constant communication with local agencies, public, and the media is critical throughout the entire
process. The initial notification should include all pertinent information, depending on the TIERS
level. Regular information updates should be provided. The A-B-C-D-E TIERS levels should be
updated and explained as necessary.
69 Press Release Attachments
TIERS Levels A, B, C, D, and E
UTILITY ISSUED NOTICE – LEVEL A
PUBLIC WATER SYSTEM ANNOUNCEMENT
A WATER SYSTEM INVESTIGATION IS UNDERWAY
On _________ at ___:____ AM/PM, the __________________________ Water System began
investigating an incident that may affect local water quality.
The incident involves the following situation at this location:
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________
There are no restrictions on water use at this time. As always, if water system customers notice
anything unusual about their water – such as abnormal odors, colors, sheen, etc. – they should
contact the water system at ___________________.
At this time there is no need for concern if you have consumed or used the water.
Regular updates will be provided about this Announcement as water system staff continue their
investigation. Again, there are no restrictions on water use at this time.
State Water System ID# ________________________ Date Distributed: ___________
70 UTILITY ISSUED NOTICE – LEVEL B
BOIL WATER ADVISORY
A BOIL WATER ADVISORY IS IN EFFECT
On _________ at ___:____ am/pm, a water problem occurred causing contamination of your
water. The areas that are affected are as follows:
□ Entire Water System or □ Other: _____________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
CONDITIONS INDICATE THERE IS A HIGH PROBABILITY THAT YOUR WATER IS
CONTAMINATED. TESTING HAS NOT OCCURRED TO CONFIRM OR DENY THE
PRESENCE OF CONTAMINATION IN YOUR WATER.
What should I do?

DO NOT DRINK THE WATER WITHOUT BOILING IT FIRST. Bring all water to
a boil, let it boil for one minute, and let it cool before using, or use bottled water. Boiled
or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes,
bathing, and food preparation until further notice. Boiling kills bacteria and other
organisms in the water.
What happened?

The problem is related to _________________________________________
What is being done?

The water system is taking the following action: ______________________
_______________________________________________________________
What should a customer do if they have consumed or used the water?

_______________________________________________________________
We will inform you when you no longer need to boil your water. We anticipate resolving the
problem within _________ hours/days. For more information, please contact
____________________ at ______________ or ___________________ at _________.
General guidelines on ways to lessen the health risk are available from the EPA Safe Drinking
Water Hotline at 1 (800) 426-4791.
Please share this information others who use this water, especially those who may not have
received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by
hand or mail.
This notice was distributed by ____________________________________________
State Water System ID# ________________________ Date Distributed: ___________
71 UTILITY ISSUED NOTICE – LEVEL C
“CANNOT DRINK” WATER NOTIFICATION
A LEVEL C WATER ADVISORY IS IN EFFECT
On _________ at ___:____ am/pm, a water problem occurred causing contamination of your
water. The areas that are affected are as follows:
□ Entire Water System or □ Other: _____________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
CONDITIONS INDICATE THERE IS A HIGH PROBABILITY THAT YOUR WATER IS
CONTAMINATED. TESTING HAS NOT OCCURRED TO CONFIRM OR DENY THE
PRESENCE OF CONTAMINATION IN YOUR WATER.
What should I do?

DO NOT DRINK THE WATER. You can’t drink the water, but you can use it for
showering, bathing, toilet-flushing, and other non-potable purposes.

BOILING WILL NOT PURIFY THE WATER. Do not drink the water, even if it is
boiled. The type of contamination suspected is not removed by boiling.
What happened?

The problem is related to _________________________________________
What is being done?

The water system is taking the following action: ______________________
_______________________________________________________________
What should a customer do if they have consumed or used the water?

_______________________________________________________________
We will inform you when the water is safe to drink. We anticipate resolving the problem within
_________ hours/days. For more information – or to report unusual water conditions such as
abnormal odors, colors, sheen, etc. – please contact _______________ at __________ or
___________________ at _________.
Please share this information others who use this water, especially those who may not have
received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by
hand or mail.
This notice was distributed by ____________________________________________
State Water System ID# ________________________ Date Distributed: ___________
72 UTILITY ISSUED NOTICE – LEVEL D
“DO NOT USE” WATER NOTIFICATION
A LEVEL D WATER ADVISORY IS IN EFFECT
On _________ at ___:____ am/pm, a water problem occurred causing contamination of your
water. The areas that are affected are as follows:
□ Entire Water System or □ Other: _____________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
CONDITIONS INDICATE THERE IS A HIGH PROBABILITY THAT YOUR WATER IS
CONTAMINATED. TESTING HAS NOT OCCURRED TO CONFIRM OR DENY THE
PRESENCE OF CONTAMINATION IN YOUR WATER.
What should I do?

DO NOT DRINK THE WATER. The water is contaminated.

DO NOT SHOWER OR BATHE IN THE WATER. You can’t use the water for
drinking, showering, or bathing. It can be used for toilet flushing and firefighting.

BOILING WILL NOT PURIFY THE WATER. Do not use the water, even if it is
boiled. The type of contamination suspected is not removed by boiling.
What happened?

The problem is related to _________________________________________
What is being done?

The water system is taking the following action: ______________________
What should a customer do if they have consumed or used the water?

_______________________________________________________________
We will inform you when the water is safe to drink. We anticipate resolving the problem within
_________ hours/days. For more information – or to report unusual water conditions such as
abnormal odors, colors, sheen, etc. – please contact _______________ at __________ or
___________________ at _________.
Please share this information others who use this water, especially those who may not have
received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by
hand or mail.
This notice was distributed by ____________________________________________
State Water System ID# ________________________ Date Distributed: ___________
73 UTILITY ISSUED NOTICE – LEVEL E
EMERGENCY WATER NOTIFICATION
A LEVEL E WATER ADVISORY IS IN EFFECT
On _________ at ___:____ am/pm, a water problem occurred causing contamination of your
water. The areas that are affected are as follows:
□ Entire Water System or □ Other: _____________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
CONDITIONS INDICATE THERE IS A HIGH PROBABILITY THAT YOUR WATER IS
CONTAMINATED. TESTING HAS NOT OCCURRED TO CONFIRM OR DENY THE
PRESENCE OF CONTAMINATION IN YOUR WATER.
What should I do?

DO NOT DRINK THE WATER. The water is contaminated.

DO NOT USE THE WATER FOR ANY PURPOSE! You can’t use the water for
drinking, showering, or bathing, or any other use – not even for toilet flushing.

BOILING WILL NOT PURIFY THE WATER. Do not use the water, even if it is
boiled. The type of contamination suspected is not removed by boiling.
What happened?

The problem is related to _________________________________________
What is being done?

The water system is taking the following action: ______________________
What should a customer do if they have consumed or used the water?

_______________________________________________________________
We will inform you when the water is safe to drink. We anticipate resolving the problem within
_________ hours/days. For more information – or to report unusual water conditions such as
abnormal odors, colors, sheen, etc. – please contact _______________ at __________ or
___________________ at _________.
Please share this information others who use this water, especially those who may not have
received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and
businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by
hand or mail.
This notice was distributed by ____________________________________________
State Water System ID# ________________________ Date Distributed: ___________
74 Emergency Short Forms
Emergency Communication Information
Name
Phone Number
Email
Designated
spokesperson:
Christine Thiel
304-267-4600
[email protected]
Alternate spokesperson:
Steve DeRidder
304-274-5803 or
304-229-5255
[email protected]
Designated location to
disseminate information
to media:
Methods of contacting
affected residents:
251 Caperton Boulevard
Martinsburg, WV 25403
BCPSWD utilizes the radio, newspapers and Television.
Name
Title
Phone
Number
Email
Bill Kohler;
The Herald Mail Co.
Editor
301-733-5131
[email protected]
The Journal
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304-263-8931
ext. 125
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WRNR – Main Line
-
WKMZ – Main Line
-
304-263-2770
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WYII
-
304-263-0637
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WEPM 1340
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WHAG Channel 25
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304-263-6586
Media
contacts:
304-263-6540
[email protected]
304-263-8868
304-263-4321
301-797-4400
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75 Emergency Services Contacts
Name
Emergency
Phone
Alternate
Phone
Berkeley County
Sheriff’s Office
911
304-267-7000
Bedington Fire
Department
911
304-274-2381
Williamsport Fire
Department
911
301-223-9112
Local Ambulance
Service
Berkeley County
Emergency
Ambulance
Authority
304-2745013
Hazardous
Material Response
Service
Berkeley County
Office of
Emergency
Services
Local Police
Local Fire
Department(s)
911
Email
304-263-1345
76 Key Personnel
Name
Key staff
responsible for
coordinating
emergency
response
procedures?
CONFIDENTIAL
Staff responsible
for keeping
confidential PSSC
information and
releasing to
emergency
responders:
CONFIDENTIAL
Title
Phone
Email
CONFIDENTIAL
CONFIDENTIAL
Are you planning on
implementing the TIER system?
Yes
77 Emergency Response Information
Has the utility developed a detailed
Emergency Response Plan in
accordance with the Public Health
Security Bioterrorism Preparedness
and Response Pan Act of 2002 that
covers the following areas?
When was the Emergency Response Plan developed or last
updated?
Yes
October, 2015
78 Emergency Contact Information
State Emergency Spill Notification
1-800-642-3074
Office of Emergency Services
http://www.wvdhsem.gov/
Charleston, WV- (304) 558-5380
WV Bureau for Public Health Office of Environmental Health Services (OEHS)
www.wvdhhr.org/oehs
Readiness Coordinator- Warren Von Dollen
Phone; 304-356-4290
Cell; 304-550-5607
e-mail; [email protected]
Environmental Engineering Division Staff
Charleston, Central Office (304) 558-2981
Beckley, District 1 (304) 256-6666
St. Albans, District 2 (304) 722-0611
Kearneysville, District 4 (304) 725-9453
Wheeling, District 5 (304) 238-1145
Fairmont, District 6 (304) 368-2530
National Response Center - Chemical, Oil, & Chemical/Biological Terrorism
1-800-424-8802
WV State Fire Marshal’s Office
1-800-233-3473
West Virginia State Police
1-304-746-2100
WV Watch – Report Suspicious Activity
1-866-989-2824
DEP Distance Calculator
http://tagis.dep.wv.gov/pswicheck/
79 Appendix D. Single Source Feasibility Study
The single source feasibility study is required for a public water utility which is served by a single surface
water source or a single groundwater source (i.e., one well or one spring). The BCPSWD Potomac River
WTP has one or more alternative supply sources in place at this time; see Appendix E for details. As a
result, a single source feasibility study is not required for this utility at this time.
80 Appendix E. Feasibility Study Narrative
The BCPSWD Potomac River System has multiple sources that eliminate the necessity for the single
source analysis. The Potomac River WTP possesses two source types (a groundwater wellfield and a
surface water intake) that are independent of one another. BCPSWD Potomac River WTP has an intake
on the Potomac River, the capacity of which is higher than average system demand (2.4 MGD). The
Potomac River WTP also utilizes three groundwater supply wells located northwest of the intersection of
Interstate-81 and Hammonds Mill Road (Route 901), which are capable of providing up to approximately
2 MGD. Finally, the system already has active interconnections with the City of Martinsburg and the
BCPSWD Bunker Hill WTP. BCPSWD has a purchase agreement with the City of Martinsburg for up to
1,000,000 gpd. They currently utilize approximately 250,000 gpd of the 1,000,000 gpd agreement,
leaving approximately 750,000 gpd for use during emergencies.
In the event that the groundwater supply wells become contaminated (two are in close proximity while the
third is significantly further downgradient from the upgradient two wells), BCPSWD can rely on the
Potomac River Intake, as well as its interconnections, if deemed necessary. Should the Potomac River
Intake become contaminated, as occurred during an October 2015 latex spill, the System would rely upon
its three groundwater supply wells, which cannot meet system demands on their own. These three wells
can supply approximately 1.6 MGD. To supplement the limited supply, the System can and does increase
the amount of water purchased from the City of Martinsburg. Doing so permits them to meet their supply
demand for the required 30, 60 and 90 day periods.
The Potomac River WTP utilizes seven storage tanks throughout the distribution system. The combined
total treated water storage of the seven tanks is 5.25 MG. At this capacity, the Potomac River WTP has
approximately two days of storage. Lotic water bodies (including the Potomac River) oftentimes do not
remain contaminated for extended periods (as can groundwater sources) because of high flow rates and
associated travel times. The amount of time that an intake would need to remain closed is dependent on
Potomac River flow rates, gradient and travel times of potential contaminants sources. Comparatively,
groundwater travel times are significantly slower, and such supplies may need to remain offline for longer
periods of time when contamination events occur. Because of this, it seems unlikely that the Potomac
River Intake would need to remain closed for extended periods up to 30, 60 or even 90 days.
81 Appendix F. Supporting Documentation
Appendix F-1. ALWI PSSC Update and Source Inspection
Appendix F-2. Locally Identified PSSC Database Search
Appendix F-3. BCPSWD – Potomac River WTP SWARs
Appendix F-4. BCPSWD Potomac River WTP Protection Team Meeting Minutes
Appendix F-5. Emergency Response Plan Signature Page
Appendix F-6. Engineering Evaluation
Appendix F-7. Railroad Emergency Response Trainings and Services
82 Appendix F-1. ALWI PSSC Update and Source Inspection
Advanced Land and Water, Inc. (ALWI) performed regulatory database reviews and a desktop
review/reconnaissance in order to identify changes to known PSSCs and to identify and record
additional PSSCs not previously documented. The desktop review/reconnaissance also included
verifying water source locations and reviewing the delineated SWPA. Both point sources and
non-point sources of contamination were considered during our desktop review.
83 Appendix F-2. Locally Identified PSSC Database Search
ALWI incorporated information from the following state-maintained environmental databases to
supplement the non-confidential point-source hazard inventories, with the date of database
publication provided parenthetically as follows:
 WV Department of Agriculture; Pesticide Program Database search for Pesticide Businesses,
Regulated Pesticide Application Businesses (RPAB), Pesticide Dealers and Commercial
Applicators (2/19/2016);
 WV DEP Office of Environmental Remediation; Public Record of Voluntary Cleanup
Program Sites (2/19/2016);
 Underground Storage Tank and Leaking Underground Storage Tank Databases (2/19/2016);
 EPA System Data Search of RCRAInfo Database for Resource Conservation and Recovery
Act (RCRA) sites (2/19/2016).
The databases helped with interpretations of water susceptibility, in that the listed facilities may
be generators of hazardous materials, petroleum products and/or other drinking water
contaminants.
84 Appendix F-3. BCPSWD – Potomac River WTP SWARs
85 Appendix F-4. BCPSWD Protection Team Meeting Minutes
Bunker Hill WTP and Potomac River Plant
Protection Team Meeting
November 19, 2015
251 Caperton Blvd. Martinsburg, WV
In Attendance:
Christine Thiel .........................BCPSWD
Steven DeRidder......................BCPSWD
Zachary Neal ...........................Advanced Land and Water, Inc.
Sarah Taggart ..........................Advanced Land and Water, Inc.
Stephen M. Gyurisin................Advanced Planning Associates, LC
Bill Clark .................................Eastern Panhandle Regional Planning & Development Council
Jennifer O’Brien ......................Eastern Panhandle Regional Planning & Development Council
Eddie Gochenour .....................Berkeley County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency
Management
Alana Hartman ........................West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection
Monica Whyte .........................West Virginia Bureau of Public Health
Mike Thompson ......................Berkeley County Planning Commission
Interested Participants Who Could Not Attend:
Regina (Suzy) Lucas ...............West Virginia Conservation Agency
Joseph A. Castaldo ..................West Virginia Department of Transportation
86 Invitees Who Did Not Respond:
Penny Shewell .........................Berkeley County Council Office Administrator
Stephen L Christian .................Berkeley County Development Authority
Manny P. Arvon ......................Berkeley County Schools
Tina Combs .............................Martinsburg-Berkeley County Chamber of Commerce
Ashley Petrolino ......................Berkeley County Health Department
Matt Ware ................................Berkeley County Farm Bureau
Tim Canfield............................USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service
Dolly Vessella .........................Winchester and Western Railroad
Dave Scott ...............................CSX Corporation
Eric Lawrence..........................Frederick County, VA Department of Planning
Meeting Objectives:
The purpose of this meeting was to establish a Protection Team, an entity which will work to
forward source water protection efforts and strategies for the BCPSWD Bunker Hill and
Potomac River Systems. More specifically, the Team worked to prioritize the major Potential
Significant Sources of Contamination, critical areas, and other threats deemed of greatest
concern to the systems’ water supply sources. Management Strategies and Implementation Plans
were developed for the highest priority threats. Education and Outreach Strategies were also
discussed, and Implementation Plans were created for these and other management activities.
Finally, the Protection Team reviewed additional general recommendations ALWI made for both
of the water Systems.
Timeline of Events:
Following formal introductions from participating Protection Team members, ALWI staff began
a PowerPoint in which we explained the hydrogeologic setting of Berkeley County and broadly
covered general system information pertaining to water source location and delineated areas that
influence system sources, which are termed source water protection areas (SWPAs). From there,
we introduced our list of prioritized PSSCs, management strategies related to those PSSCs and
education and outreach strategies to engage and educate the public on source water protection
efforts. We then asked the Protection Team to opine on our PSSC list and edit prioritization, if
and where appropriate. We discussed implementation measures for protection strategies, as well
87 as education and outreach strategies, and assigned responsibility to Protection Team members
who volunteered to handle each strategy. We ended the meeting by presenting additional general
system recommendations, which broadly covered better physical protection measures (e.g.,
fences) and investigative studies.
Discussion of Public Involvement and Future Public Workshop Meetings:
During the course of the meeting, the Protection Team discussed the degree of public
involvement required and concerns about the confidentiality of specific information (PSSC
Inventory) when engaging the public. This was brought about by discussion of the future public
workshop meeting and conceptualization of hosting a draft SWPP (that does not contain
confidential information) on BCPSWD’s website, for the purpose of garnishing additional public
comment and feedback. BPH opined that this could be an effective method of keeping the public
informed of Source Water Protection activities, as long as confidential information (i.e., that
information that isn’t accessible to the public online) is omitted from the document.
Monica Whyte informed the Protection Team that the BPH will hold public hearings (possibly
grouping Systems together based on geographic location) after they have received and reviewed
the completed Source Water Protection Plans from required systems throughout Region 9. This
hearing does not satisfy the requirements, nor take the place of the public workshop that each
utility is required to hold for their relevant systems. Feasible methods of advertising such
workshops were also discussed; BCPSWD has contacts with local newspapers and radio stations,
and has the ability to advertise on their website, Facebook page, and posted notices at the
BCPSWD office.
Bunker Hill System Specific Discussions:
During discussion of a 1976 dye tracing study completed in Berkeley County by W.A. Hobba Jr.,
Alana Hartman stated that the non-point section of the Division of Water & Wastewater
Management is beginning to focus funding and interest towards Sylvan Run, Torytown Run, and
Mills Creek. Funding would potentially be available through the West Virginia DEP Agricultural
Enhancement Program (among other programs), and would focus on reducing negative effects
associated with agricultural practices within the watershed, and may potentially cover non-point
contamination originating from septic systems. Programs being forwarded in these areas include
agricultural enhancement programs, others aimed at establishing riparian buffer zones, and
others designed for encouraging residents to frequently check and pump their septic tanks.
These programs are important for the Bunker Hill system, as Sylvan run has been documented as
a losing stream (Hobba, 1976) and may serve as a source of recharge to LeFevre Spring. As
such, the Bunker Hill Water Treatment Plant may benefit from activation and renewed interest in
these programs in the SWPA, with an emphasis placed on decreasing the effects of non-point
source pollution on Sylvan Run.
During the presentation, we displayed current and future land use maps, with the BPH delineated
SWPA overlain. The future growth area maps, which we acquired from the Berkeley County
88 Council website, depict anticipated land development in close proximity to the LeFevre Spring,
and in areas associated with major faults and conduits associated with the spring. Much of the
development area is anticipated to occur between and west of the Route 11 and I-81 corridors.
The maps also showed that approximately one-third of the SWPA is located in Frederick County,
VA in locations where zoning maps indicate future industrial and commercial growth will occur.
Eric Laurence, Director of the Frederick County, VA Department of Planning was invited to the
Protection Team meeting, but did not respond. ALWI recommended that the System continue to
work with representatives from the Frederick County Department of Planning to limit
incompatible land use development within the Bunker Hill SWPA.
ALWI-identified PSSCs and Critical Areas within the Bunker Hill SWPA were presented and
discussed, with ALWI staff explaining the basis for each potential threat. Prior to the meeting,
ALWI had prioritized these potential threats, as follows (in order from highest priority to lowest
priority; see Table 8):
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Highway (I-81) Corridors
Railroad Networks
Sinkholes
Commercial Activities
Septic & Sewer Systems
Agricultural Activities
New Growth Areas
ALWI asked that the Protection Team consider the threats, add additional threats conceived by
the team, assess the prioritization of the threats and make any revisions to prioritization, as
presented to the team. The Protection Team did not recommend any revisions to the ALWIidentified and prioritized table of PSSCs and Critical Areas.
Management Strategies developed and recommended by ALWI for each of these priority
concerns were discussed thereafter (see Table 9). During the discussion, team members
volunteered to handle implementation of the recommended management strategies. Relevant
management and implementation strategies were discussed as follows:
 Highways - In response to an ALWI recommendation to establish emergency spill
response stations, Mr. Eddie Gochenour explained that OHSEM currently has 20-25
absorbent bags available for the cleanup of spills and leaks. Mr. Gochenour deemed that
this would be enough for small spills, but not large spills associated with train
derailments and tanker truck accidents. Mr. Gochenour indicated that Berkeley County
can receive mutual aid from Washington County, MD, who maintains an inventory of
two pallets of absorbent, with each pallet containing 20-25 bags of absorbent. Mr.
Gochenour agrees that pre-stocked response stations at key locations could decrease
response time in the event of a spill. In this regard, Mr. Gochenour recommended
reaching out to Joseph A. Castaldo with the Department of Transportation to discuss
storage options for spill response equipment at the State Highway facility located on
Tabler Station Road, which is located between the City of Martinsburg and Town of
89 Inwood. Alana Hartman added that as a “one-time-expense” project, there is a possibility
that funding for instituting emergency stations could be sought through local watershed
groups. The responsibility of re-stocking the emergency resources would be put on the
carrier or entity responsible for the spill.
 Railroad - ALWI recommended that Berkeley County emergency personnel work with
CSX and their shortline partners and take advantage of free training (online and in
classroom) offered by the railroad corporation. These training exercises include online
workshops, training at emergency personnel facilities, and train car response workshop
activities. Mr. Gochenour informed the Team that he is working with Joe Taylor (CSX)
to schedule tabletop and onsite trainings for railroad accidents and spills. He anticipates
that onsite drills will begin to take place as early as 2016, and that the recommendations
provided in Table 9 (relating to highways and railroads) will be implemented within a
two-year time period.
 Sinkholes - Due to the presence of karst terrain, which underlies the region and
encompasses the majority of both SWPAs, ALWI recommended that the System work
with the County to establish a Sinkhole Management Program, possibly modeled after the
Carroll County, MD Sinkhole Management Program. ALWI explained the general
outline of the Carroll County Sinkhole Management Plan, whereby the locations of
known sinkholes and karst geology boundaries are mapped, responsible parties for
sinkhole formation and mitigation are established and/or determined, protocol for regular
sinkhole inspections on County lands are instituted and cost-sharing initiatives for
sinkhole mitigation are presented. When asked what policies Berkeley County presently
has in place for sinkhole management, Mike Thompson stated that from a planning
perspective, the Council becomes aware of the presence of sinkholes on private lands
through the subdivision ordinance and associated planning requirements. Developers are
required to establish buffers around known sinkholes, and residents are encouraged to
establish buffers around or mitigate sinkholes that come to form on their land. Sinkholes
located on land to be developed must be mapped and reported to the planning
commission. A 50 foot buffer is required around existing sinkholes. Mr. Thompson added
that roadways in the County are all privately owned, excluding State roads maintained by
the Department of Transportation, which is no longer accepting incorporation of privately
built roads. This presents a problem when a sinkhole forms on a private roadway because
the responsibility of onerous repair efforts falls on one or more residents or homeowners
associations. Berkeley County is dealing with such a situation currently. The lack of
zoning in the County impedes land use restriction efforts and makes it difficult to
establish sinkhole regulations through ordinances or other related measures. The Team
discussed alternative options for implementing sinkhole regulations. Currently there are
minimal sinkhole requirements embedded into County Stormwater Regulations, which
are presently being updated. Matt Pennington is responsible for the draft stormwater
regulations. This could present a possible avenue to incorporate more stringent sinkhole
management regulations. WV State Code also provides for protective efforts to be
established in wellhead protection areas. A sinkhole management strategy would be far
more feasible if it is focused on SWPAs or other critical areas within the County, rather
than as a County-wide regulation. Mr. Bill Clark and Ms. Jennifer O’Brien with the
90 Eastern Panhandle Regional Planning & Development Council expressed a willingness to
identify funding opportunities for implementation of a preliminary sinkhole management
program.
 Commercial Activities – While a limited number of commercial facilities exist within
the Bunker Hill SWPA, two of the existing facilities identified by BPH included gas
stations. ALWI also came to identify a number of auto repair and maintenance shops
scattered throughout the SWPA. These facilities were discussed briefly. The Protection
Team decided it would be appropriate to request site information from the Department of
Environmental Protection and confirm that auto repair facilities were legal and properly
disposing waste products. The Protection Team also felt it would be appropriate to
provide site-specific Best Management Practice (BMP) documents to these commercial
facilities to raise awareness about source water protection efforts and ensure potential
contaminants are disposed of using best available methods.
 Septic System(s) - The Protection Team decided to hold off on implementation of related
management activities until the next time the Sanitary Sewer Service plans to assess the
feasibility of sewer extension/expansion, which will occur concordantly with
development. The team discussed how the DEP Non-Point Section of the Division of
Water and Wastewater Management works to assist and encourage residents to properly
maintain their septic systems and maintains information regarding which systems are in
need of attention. As a result, ALWI recommendations will be coordinated with other
agencies at a later date.
 Agricultural Practices - The Team discussed recommended management activities for
farmlands within the SWPA; accepting our recommendations without a set time limit for
implementation. Ms. Alana Hartman indicated that West Virginia does not require
Nutrient Management Plans for agricultural facilities, but that they are developed and
provided at no cost.
 New Growth - When discussing relevant management activities, the Berkeley County
Planning Commission reiterated that they do not possess the ability to enforce low impact
development practices directly due to the absence of zoning in Berkeley County,
presently. The Protection Team is turning towards alternate avenues of land use
restrictions and purchasing opportunities, which include coordination with the Farmland
Protection Board and other Land Protection programs/agencies. In this regard the System
could consider working with Farmland Protection to request a higher point value (system
of ranking the program uses; corresponding to the amount of funding given) to properties
within the SWPA which are near the System’s sources or overlying mapped fractures and
faults associated with System sources.
During the course of the meeting, the Communication Plan component of the SWPP was
discussed. The plan requires that a Communication Team be formed and comprised of personnel
who would play an integral part in disseminating information between the system, the public and
91 other entities involved, should an emergency contamination event occur. ALWI recommended
to the System that invitations be extended to local emergency and law enforcement personnel in
this regard. However, ALWI also pointed out to Protection Team members that diagrams
depicting the chain of communication/command in the event of a contaminant occurrence are
provided in BCPSWDs confidential Emergency Response Plan (ERP), which BPH possesses and
will receive an update to at a later date. This ERP outlines the means by which information will
be disseminated to the public in a timely manner. Recent public notifications by BCPSWD
regarding the latex spill on the Potomac River indicate that the ERP is sufficiently well designed
and organized to effectively notify water users in a timely fashion.
When discussing the generalized and non-confidential web of communication followed by
different entities in the event of a spill or other emergency, it became apparent that there is a
delay in the time it takes information gathered by first responders and emergency personnel to be
shared with water suppliers. Eddie Gochenour stated that when a spill or other contamination
emergency is reported to their dispatch station, the EPA has asked that they be notified directly.
From there, notifications would then be sent out at the State and then the Local levels. It is
important to note that this system is not currently in place or finalized, and is just a concept
proposed by the EPA.
Chris Thiel indicated that she receives notifications of spills on the Potomac (such as the recent
latex spill) from the Interstate Commission on the Potomac River Basin, while she receives only
email notifications from the County Health Department for all other spills. Ms. Thiel indicated
that she receives excessive notifications of small scale spills on a daily basis. In an effort to
streamline local communication efforts with the System, Mr. Gochenour will work with local
dispatchers to highlight circumstances where the BCPSWD should be directly informed of a spill
(i.e., spills occurring in close proximity to Sylvan Run, or LeFevre Spring itself). Mr. Gochenour
inquired as to the amount of spilled material which Ms. Thiel would want to be notified of
directly. She indicated that she would deem a spill of 1,000 gallons or more within the SWPA as
a critical threat, but that notifications of smaller quantities may be issued if spills occur in close
proximity to System sources.
The Education and Outreach Strategies recommended by ALWI were discussed, and responsible
members were chosen for each category (See Table 10).
92 Appendix F-5. Emergency Response Plan Signature Page
93 Appendix F-6. Engineering Evaluation
CONFIDENTIAL
94 Appendix F-7. Railroad Emergency Response Trainings and Services
The information included in this Appendix may be found at the following web addresses
(respectfully):
Online Education:
 General - https://www.csx.com/index.cfm/about-us/safety/community/emergency-
responder-training-and-education/
 Online Trainings – www.csxsafe.com
 Planning Guides – http://csxhazmat.kor-tx.com/
 Additional Training Opportunities - http://www.beyondourrails.org/index.cfm/safety/
Rail Respond:
 Program Information – http://www.beyondourrails.org/index.cfm/safety/respond/
Safety Train:
 Program Information – http://www.beyondourrails.org/index.cfm/news-
stories/articles/csx-safety-train-delivers-enhanced-outreach-to-first-responders-andcommunities/
 Related Article – http://www.richmond.com/business/article_6b1526cf-e3fe-55d4-bec6-
37601609a875.html
 CSX Corporate Social Responsibility Report (additional information on the Safety Train
program may be found on page 50) https://www.csx.com/index.cfm/library/files/responsibility/csr-report-files/corporatesocial-responsibility-report/
95 96 97 98 99 100 101